Fitness Testing
Fitness Testing > Tests > Strength > Push Up
APFT Push Up Test
This test forms part of the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), performed by US Army personnel every six months.
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purpose: This test measures the strength endurance of the chest, shoulder, and triceps muscles.
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equipment required: floor mat or flat ground
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description / procedure: The aim of this test is to perform as many push-ups in you can in two minutes. The starting position is with your arms straight, hands a comfortable distance apart, body straight. Feet may be up to 12 inches apart. On the command ‘get set,’ the starting position is assumed, and on the command ‘go,’ start the push-up by bending your elbows and lowering your body until your upper arms are at least parallel to the ground, and then return to the starting position. Pausing to rest is permitted only in the authorized rest position, though you must return to and pause in the correct starting position before continuing.
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scoring: The maximum number of correctly performed push ups is recorded. The scoring depends on the sex and age of the participant. See APFT for more information about scoring.
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comments: For the push up to be counted, the body must remain rigid in a generally straight line, and move as a unit while performing each rep, and the technique as described must be adhered to. If you rest on the ground or raise either hand or foot from the ground, the test will be terminated.
Related Pages
- see video of push up fitness tests
- APFT testing discussion and scoring
- push ups as performed in the US Navy PRT
- a Simple Push-Up Test that can be done at home
- general Push Up Test procedures
- other speed and power tests
- World Records for Push Ups
- why Spider-Man?
