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ACFT Calculator: Everything You Need to Know About the Army Combat Fitness Test
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the U.S. Army’s new standard for assessing soldiers’ physical readiness. Unlike the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), the ACFT is designed to better reflect the demands of modern combat.
If you’re preparing for the ACFT, an ACFT Calculator can be an invaluable tool to track your progress and ensure you meet the required standards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
- What is the ACFT?
- ACFT Events & Scoring
- How to Use an ACFT Calculator
- ACFT Standards by Gender & Age
- Training Tips to Improve Your ACFT Score
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQs About the ACFT
Let’s dive in!
1. What is the ACFT?
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) was introduced in 2020 to replace the older APFT. The ACFT is a more comprehensive test that evaluates strength, endurance, and agility—key components for combat readiness.
Key Differences Between ACFT and APFT
| Feature | ACFT | APFT |
|---|---|---|
| Test Components | 6 events | 3 events |
| Gender-Neutral | Yes | No |
| Age Adjustments | Minimal | Significant |
| Equipment Needed | Yes (hex bar, sled, etc.) | No |
The ACFT is designed to be more inclusive and combat-relevant, ensuring all soldiers meet the physical demands of their roles.
2. ACFT Events & Scoring
The ACFT consists of six events, each scored on a scale from 0 to 100 points. The minimum passing score is 60 points per event, with a total of 360 points needed to pass.
The Six ACFT Events
- 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)
- Measures strength and lifting ability.
- Soldiers lift a hex bar for 3 reps.
- Scoring: Based on weight lifted (120-340 lbs for males, 120-240 lbs for females).
- Standing Power Throw (SPT)
- Tests explosive power.
- Soldiers throw a 10-lb medicine ball backward.
- Scoring: Distance measured in meters (4.5-12.5m for males, 3.1-9.5m for females).
- Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP)
- Evaluates upper body endurance.
- Soldiers perform push-ups with a full hand release at the bottom.
- Scoring: Reps in 2 minutes (10-60 for males, 10-50 for females).
- Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
- Measures speed, agility, and endurance.
- Soldiers complete 5 x 50m shuttle runs with different tasks (sprint, drag, carry).
- Scoring: Time-based (1:30-3:30 for males, 2:00-4:00 for females).
- Plank (PLK)
- Assesses core strength.
- Soldiers hold a plank for as long as possible.
- Scoring: Time held (1:00-3:30 for males, 0:50-3:30 for females).
- 2-Mile Run (2MR)
- Tests cardiovascular endurance.
- Soldiers run 2 miles as fast as possible.
- Scoring: Time-based (13:00-21:00 for males, 15:00-24:00 for females).
3. How to Use an ACFT Calculator
An ACFT Calculator helps you estimate your score based on your performance in each event. Here’s how to use it:
- Enter your gender and age group (if applicable).
- Input your scores for each event.
- The calculator will generate your total score and indicate if you pass or fail.
Why Use an ACFT Calculator?
✔ Track progress over time.
✔ Identify weak areas to focus on in training.
✔ Ensure you meet minimum standards before test day.
4. ACFT Standards by Gender & Age
The ACFT is gender-neutral, but performance expectations vary slightly based on age and military occupational specialty (MOS).
Minimum Passing Scores (60 Points per Event)
| Event | Male (17-21) | Female (17-21) |
|---|---|---|
| Deadlift | 140 lbs | 140 lbs |
| Power Throw | 4.5m | 3.1m |
| Push-Ups | 10 reps | 10 reps |
| SDC | 3:30 min | 4:00 min |
| Plank | 1:00 min | 0:50 min |
| 2-Mile Run | 21:00 min | 24:00 min |
For higher ranks and combat roles, soldiers may need to score 80-100 points per event.
5. Training Tips to Improve Your ACFT Score
Deadlift Training
- Focus on hex bar deadlifts (3-5 reps).
- Strengthen glutes, hamstrings, and lower back.
Power Throw Drills
- Practice explosive hip movements (e.g., kettlebell swings).
- Work on medicine ball throws for distance.
Push-Up Endurance
- Train with hand-release push-ups to mimic the test.
- Increase volume gradually (e.g., 5 sets of 15 reps).
SDC Preparation
- Simulate the event with shuttle runs, sled drags, and farmer’s carries.
- Improve anaerobic endurance with HIIT workouts.
Plank & Core Work
- Hold longer planks (aim for 3+ minutes).
- Add side planks and weighted core exercises.
2-Mile Run Strategy
- Train with interval runs (e.g., 800m repeats).
- Build endurance with long, slow runs (3-5 miles).
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Neglecting Weak Events – Focus on your lowest-scoring events first.
❌ Poor Form on Deadlifts – Risk of injury if done incorrectly.
❌ Starting Too Fast on the 2-Mile Run – Pace yourself to avoid burnout.
❌ Skipping Mobility Work – Flexibility helps prevent injuries.
7. FAQs About the ACFT
Q: Is the ACFT harder than the APFT?
A: Yes, because it tests more muscle groups and combat-specific movements.
Q: Can you fail one event and still pass?
A: No, you must score at least 60 points in each event to pass.
Q: How often is the ACFT taken?
A: Twice a year for most soldiers, but some units test more frequently.
Q: Are there alternate events for injured soldiers?
A: Yes, the Army provides modified versions for soldiers with temporary injuries.
Final Thoughts
The ACFT is a challenging but fair test of a soldier’s combat readiness. Using an ACFT Calculator helps you stay on track and maximize your score.
Ready to test your fitness? Start training today and aim for maximum points in every event!