ACFT (Army Combat Fitness Test) Calculator

Picture this: you’re standing at the starting line, heart pounding with anticipation, ready to face one of the most comprehensive fitness evaluations ever designed for military personnel. The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) isn’t just another workout; it’s a challenge that sharpens soldiers’ strength, endurance, and combat readiness. But what exactly does it entail, and how are you graded when it’s all said and done? 

The ACFT is a series of athletic events that every soldier must master to ensure their preparedness for the diverse physical demands of combat.

This article analyzes the details of the ACFT, including its six athletic events, grading scales, and the overall significance of fitness in the military. We also bring you an ACFT Calculator to help you estimate your scores. With this handy tool, you can track your progress and ensure you’re on the right path to achieving your fitness goals.

What is the Army Combat Fitness Test?

The Army Combat Fitness Test was introduced to replace the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) as a more comprehensive evaluation of a soldier’s physical capabilities. Launched in 2020, the ACFT aims to ensure that all soldiers are prepared for the physical demands of combat. The test emphasizes a holistic approach to fitness, focusing on strength, endurance, coordination, and agility.

Importance of the Army Combat Fitness Test

The importance of the ACFT extends beyond individual performance. It is a critical tool for assessing the overall readiness of units and the Army. The test helps identify soldiers who may need additional training and ensures that all personnel meet the physical standards required for their roles. Furthermore, it promotes a fitness culture within the Army, encouraging soldiers to prioritize their health and well-being.

The Six Athletic Events of the ACFT

The ACFT consists of six events that evaluate various aspects of physical fitness. Each event simulates tasks that soldiers may encounter in combat scenarios. The following sections outline each event and its specific objectives.

1. Deadlift (MDL)

The deadlift is the first event of the ACFT and measures lower body strength. Soldiers lift a weighted barbell from the ground to hip level, engaging their legs, back, and core muscles. The test requires soldiers to perform three repetitions at their maximum weight.

Key Points:

• Objective: Assess lower body strength.
• Equipment: Barbell and weights.
• Grading Scale: Soldiers can score between 60 to 100 points based on the weight lifted.

2. Standing Power Throw (SPT)

The standing power throw evaluates explosive power and upper body strength. Participants throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward over their heads for distance. This event simulates the explosive movements soldiers may need during combat.

Key Points:

• Objective: Measure upper body explosive power.
• Equipment: 10-pound medicine ball.
• Grading Scale: Scoring ranges from 60 to 100 points based on the distance thrown.

3. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP)

The hand-release push-up assesses upper body endurance and core stability. Soldiers perform push-ups while lifting their hands off the ground at the bottom of each repetition, ensuring full range of motion.

Key Points:

• Objective: Test upper body endurance and core strength.
• Equipment: None (bodyweight exercise).
• Grading Scale: Soldiers earn points based on the number of push-ups completed, ranging from 60 to 100 points.

4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)

This event combines multiple movements to assess agility, speed, and strength. Soldiers sprint for 50 meters, drag a sled for 50 meters, carry two kettlebells for 50 meters, and sprint back to the start.

Key Points:

• Objective: Evaluate overall agility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance.
• Equipment: Sled and kettlebells.
• Grading Scale: Performance is timed, with scores ranging from 60 to 100 points.

5. Plank (PLK)

The plank focuses on endurance and core control. To perform it effectively, align your body straight from head to heels, fully engaging the abdominal muscles. Every second in this position challenges your core strength and mental resilience. 

Key Points:

• Objective: Measure core strength.
• Equipment: None (bodyweight exercise).
• Grading Scale: Times are recorded, with scores ranging from 60 to 100 points.

6. Two-Mile Run (2MR)

The final event of the ACFT is the two-mile run, which evaluates cardiovascular endurance. Soldiers must complete the run as quickly as possible, simulating the endurance required in combat situations.

Key Points:

• Objective: Measure cardiovascular endurance.
• Equipment: None (running on a track or designated area).
• Grading Scale: Times are recorded, with scores ranging from 60 to 100 points.

ACFT Scoring Scales

Below, you’ll find the official scoring chart for the ACFT. This chart outlines the standard scoring as specified in the official ACFT guidelines.

Explore the ACFT grading scales to understand the minimum and maximum scores for both males and females across different age groups.

Event	Gender	Points	17-21	22-26	27-31	32-36	37-41	42-46	47-51	52-56	57-61	62+
MDL (lbs)	Female	100	210	230	230	230	210	210	190	190	170	170
		60	120	120	120	120	120	120	120	120	120	120
	Male	100	340	340	340	340	340	340	330	290	250	230
		60	140	140	140	140	140	140	140	140	140	140
SPT (meters)	Female	100	8.4	8.5	8.7	8.6	8.2	8.1	7.8	7.4	6.6	6.6
		60	3.9	4.0	4.2	4.1	4.1	3.9	3.7	3.5	3.4	3.4
	Male	100	12.6	13.0	13.1	12.9	12.8	12.3	11.6	10.6	9.9	9.0
		60	6.0	6.3	6.5	6.5	6.4	6.2	6.0	5.7	5.3	4.9
HRP (reps)	Female	100	53	50	48	47	41	36	35	30	24	24
		60	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10
	Male	100	57	61	62	60	59	56	55	51	46	43
		60	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10
SDC (m:ss)	Female	100	1:55	1:55	1:55	1:59	2:02	2:09	2:11	2:18	2:26	2:26
		60	3:15	3:15	3:15	3:22	3:27	3:42	3:51	4:03	4:48	4:48
	Male	100	1:29	1:30	1:30	1:33	1:36	1:40	1:45	1:52	1:58	2:09
		60	2:28	2:31	2:32	2:36	2:41	2:45	2:53	3:00	3:12	3:16
PLK (m:ss)	Female	100	3:40	3:35	3:30	3:25	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20
		60	1:30	1:25	1:20	1:15	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10
	Male	100	3:40	3:35	3:30	3:25	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20	3:20
		60	1:30	1:25	1:20	1:15	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10	1:10
2MR (mm:ss)	Female	100	15:29	15:00	15:00	15:18	15:30	15:49	15:58	16:29	17:18	17:18
		60	23:22	23:15	23:13	23:19	23:23	23:42	24:00	24:24	24:48	25:00
	Male	100	13:22	13:27	13:31	13:42	13:58	14:05	14:30	15:09	15:28	15:28
		60	22:00	22:00	22:00	22:00	22:11	22:32	22:55	23:20	23:36	23:36

Overall Scoring

• 60 points: Minimum passing score for each event.
• 70 points: Moderate fitness level.
• 80 points: Good fitness level.
• 90 points: Excellent fitness level.
• 100 points: Exceptional fitness level.

To pass the overall ACFT, soldiers must achieve a minimum cumulative score of 360 points, which requires at least 60 points in each event.

Using the Army Combat Fitness Test Calculator

1. Input Your Personal Data: Enter your age and gender, as these factors influence the scoring scale and your performance evaluation.
2. Enter Event Scores: For each of the six events (Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Hand-Release Push-Up, Sprint-Drag-Carry, Plank, and Two-Mile Run), input your personal results. This is typically the weight lifted, distance thrown, repetitions performed, or time taken.
3. Review Your Performance: Once you’ve entered all your data, the calculator will assess your scores based on the ACRT standards to provide an overall score.
4. Analyze Results: Utilize the feedback provided to identify improvement areas and track your progress over training sessions.

Preparing for the Army Combat Fitness Test

Preparation for the ACFT involves strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and flexibility work. Soldiers are encouraged to develop a well-rounded fitness regimen that includes exercises targeting all six events of the test.

Tips for Effective Preparation

1. Develop a Training Plan: Create a structured training schedule with workouts focused on each event. Incorporate strength training, endurance runs, and flexibility exercises.
2. Practice Event-Specific Drills: Spend time practicing each event to improve technique and performance. For example, focus on proper form for deadlifts and hand-release push-ups.
3. Incremental Progression: Gradually increase the intensity and volume of workouts to avoid injury and promote consistent improvement.
4. Incorporate Cross-Training: Engage in various forms of exercise, such as swimming, cycling, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), to enhance overall fitness.
5. Prioritize Recovery: Ensure adequate rest and recovery between workouts to optimize performance and prevent overtraining.

The Role of Fitness in the Army

Physical fitness is essential for passing the ACFT and plays a crucial role in a soldier’s overall effectiveness in the field. Fitness contributes to improved mental resilience, enhanced teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. The ACFT reflects these values, promoting a culture of physical readiness and well-being among soldiers.

Benefits of Physical Fitness

• Improved Health: Regular exercise contributes to better overall health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Enhanced Performance: Soldiers who maintain high fitness levels are better equipped to handle the physical demands of their duties.
• Increased Confidence: Achieving fitness goals boosts self-esteem and motivates soldiers to continue pushing their limits.

Related Calculators

• US Army Body Fat Percentage Calculator
• US Air Force PT Test Calculator
• Navy Physical Readiness Test Calculator

Conclusion: Army Combat Fitness Test Calculator

As you journey through the preparation and execution stages of the Army Combat Fitness Test, it’s clear that each aspect of the test is designed to challenge your physical capabilities and mental resilience. Understanding the detailed components and their grading scales helps you set realistic goals and measure your progress efficiently. This test is not just an assessment; it reflects the critical role fitness plays in military readiness. Whether aspiring to join the Army or currently serving, the ACFT is an excellent opportunity to push your limits and achieve new heights in personal fitness. Prepare thoroughly, stay motivated, and embrace the challenge confidently. Success is not only about passing the test but also about embodying the strength and discipline it symbolizes.