The ACFT explained: a guide to the test the AFT replaced
Historical context, not current test-day instructions
Guidance reviewed October 1, 2026.
Read this as an ACFT reference
The ACFT is no longer the Army's current fitness test of record. The AFT replaced it on June 1, 2025.[1] This article retains the ACFT topic to help readers understand older records and training material. Use current Army guidance to prepare for a test today.
What the ACFT was designed to assess
The ACFT broadened Army testing beyond the APFT's push-ups, sit-ups and run, adding strength, power and other demands.[21][20] Its format changed during development. An early leg-tuck guide and a later plank-based scorecard do not describe exactly the same version.
Why the history still matters
Old test results may remain in personal records or training logs. Keep their dates and test names clear. Do not use an old total to infer current promotion eligibility, school admission or performance under a different test.
Do not carry an old testing schedule forward
Current scheduling depends on the applicable policy and Soldier category. Army Directive 2026-07 introduced the separate CFT requirement and revised testing arrangements for designated combat specialties.[15] Confirm your unit's schedule rather than relying on an ACFT-era article.
The six-event ACFT format
The later ACFT format included the following six events. This outline is historical context, not a grading manual. For current AFT requirements, the standing power throw is no longer included.[1]
1. Three-repetition maximum deadlift
The deadlift assessed strength through a loaded lift. It remains an AFT event, but you should use the current instructions and table for a current test.[1]
2. Standing power throw
The power throw was part of the ACFT and is absent from the AFT.[1] Keep that distinction in mind when an old calculator asks you to enter a throw result.
3. Hand-release push-up
This event remains in the AFT as the hand-release push-up with arm extension.[1] Review the actual movement standard, not just the similar event name.
4. Sprint-drag-carry
The SDC remains in the AFT.[1] Its name alone does not establish that a practice lane, equipment setup or scoring table is correct.
5. Plank
The plank is part of the AFT.[1] Older ACFT materials may instead discuss a leg tuck; check which version the document covers.[21][20]
6. Two-mile run
The two-mile run remains in the AFT.[1] Keep historical run results with their test date and use the applicable table when reviewing an old score.
Scores belong to their test
Do not compare an ACFT total directly with an AFT total or carry an old conversion table into a current promotion calculation. Use the official resources for the test and date in question. If the issue concerns an official record, ask the responsible unit staff to review it.
Training advice that needs context
A balanced plan should account for the work you are actually preparing to do, your experience and medical restrictions. The Army's H2F approach considers physical, mental, nutritional, spiritual and sleep readiness.[18] Discuss the plan with qualified staff instead of building it around a historical test alone.
Choose the right reference before training
If your goal is the next record test, start with current AFT and any applicable CFT guidance.[1][15] ArmyFit's listed calculators and practice tools may help with organization, but they do not decide your official test requirements.[17]
References and earlier reading
Links carried forward from this article are listed for further reading, not as verification of current policy or of the claims in earlier editions. Consult the checked sources below for the revised guidance.
Sources
[1] https://www.army.mil/aft — Army Fitness Test: official events and policy resources [15] https://api.army.mil/e2/c/downloads/2026/04/29/858da01e/cft-army-directive.pdf — Army Directive 2026-07: Army Physical Fitness Standards [17] https://www.army.fit — ArmyFit product features [18] https://www.goarmy.com/explore-the-army/holistic-health-fitness — GoArmy: Holistic Health and Fitness [20] https://www.army.mil/article/254875/secretary_approves_implementation_of_revised_army_combat_fitness_test — Secretary approves implementation of revised Army Combat Fitness Test [21] https://www.army.mil/article/240442/task_force_illini_soldiers_prepare_for_the_new_army_fitness_test — Task Force Illini Soldiers prepare for the new Army fitness test (2020 historical context)
Credits
Photo: Spc. Julian Padua / DVIDS. 10.18.2019.
The appearance of U.S. Department of War (DoW) visual information does not imply or constitute DoW endorsement.