The Ultimate Guide to the 2026 Army Fitness Test (AFT)
As the military evolves, so do its physical readiness protocols. Scheduled for full integration, the Army Fitness Test (AFT) represents the latest evolution in measuring combat readiness, effectively streamlining the previous ACFT by focusing strictly on five core events. This updated assessment removes the Standing Power Throw to emphasize exercises directly correlating to battlefield lethality and injury prevention.
Whether you are preparing for Basic Training or are a seasoned combat veteran, understanding exactly how your repetitions and run times translate into points is critical. Use our interactive AFT Score Calculator above to plug in your stats and instantly determine your pass/fail status based on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) requirements.
Breakdown of the 5 AFT Events
1. 3-Rep Max Deadlift (MDL)
Assesses lower-body and grip strength. It directly simulates lifting heavy equipment, such as ammo crates or casualty extraction. Proper spinal alignment is mandatory to avoid disqualification.
2. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP)
Tests upper-body muscular endurance and core stability. It replaces standard push-ups by forcing a full range of motion, mimicking pushing obstacles or rising from a prone firing stance.
3. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
A rigorous test of anaerobic capacity. Soldiers must sprint, drag a 90-pound sled, and carry heavy kettlebells across 250 total meters. Speed and explosive power are paramount here.
4. Plank Hold (PLK)
Replaced the leg tuck to provide a more standardized measure of core strength. A solid plank time proves the Soldier has the midline stability needed to carry rucksacks over long distances.
5. Two-Mile Run (2MR)
The cornerstone of cardiovascular endurance testing. Pacing and aerobic capacity are key to maximizing your points on the final event of the test.
AFT Scoring Requirements
Unlike older fitness tests, the AFT establishes a maximum score of 500 points (100 points per event). However, simply passing each event is not always enough. Depending on your duty station and MOS, the minimum thresholds vary:
- Combat MOS Roles: Soldiers in heavy physical demand roles must secure a baseline of 350 points. Their scoring tiers are age-normed but remain entirely gender-neutral, ensuring that physical output expectations on the battlefield are uniform.
- Combat Support & General Roles: Support personnel are required to hit a minimum of 300 points. Their grading scales are adjusted for both age and gender demographics.
- Universal Minimums: Regardless of MOS, age, or gender, every Soldier must score a minimum of 60 points in every single event. Failing to reach 60 points in even one category results in an automatic failure of the entire test.
AFT Scoring Charts
Curious about the exact brackets? Below are the visual grading scales utilized to interpolate your raw performance into final event points.
MDL & HRP Scales
Cardio & Core Scales
