Hand Release Pushup Test
This test forms part of the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). It is a measure of the maximum number of pushups completed in two minutes. This test differs from the standard push-up as the soldier must take the weight off their hands when in the lowest position. This test replaces the APFT 2-min push-up test in 2020.
purpose: this test measures the strength endurance of the chest, shoulder, and triceps muscles.
equipment required: floor mat or flat ground surface.
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender and test conditions. Perform a standard warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
the push-up test remains in the army testing protocolprocedure: the starting position is in the 'down' position. The hands are held near the shoulders 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 pushing up and raising the body until the arms are fully extended, then the body is lowered again to the starting position. After each full pushup, the hands are lifted off the ground, so there is a visible gap seen by the grader between the palms and the ground. Pausing to rest is permitted only in down position.
scoring: The maximum number of correctly performed push-ups in two minutes is recorded. The scoring depends on the sex and age of the participant. See ACFT for more information about scoring.
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.
notes: the original version of this test was called the T-Pushup, and required the soldier to move the arms out when in the down position to make a 'T' position of the body, rather than just lift the hands off the ground.
Similar Tests
- The previous US Army 2-min push-up test.
- Modified push-up test — includes a clap behind the back while in the 'down' position and a touch from one hand to the other in the 'up' position
- push-ups as performed in the US Navy PRT.
- A Simple Push-Up Test that can be done at home.
Related Pages
- See video of push-up fitness tests
- US Army testing discussion and scoring.
- General push-up test procedures.
- Other speed and power tests
- World Records for Push-Ups
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