US Air Force Fitness Testing
The US Air Force requires new recruits to undergo fitness assessments as part of the recruitment process. Below is some information about the fitness requirements and standards. This information is presented for discussion - for up to date information see official sources. See also the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) used to assess candidates for the US Air Force Academy.
Assessment Tests
To pass the fitness tests for the US Air Force, airmen must achieve a score of 75 out of 100 for meeting weighted benchmarks based on age and gender for four tests: push-ups, sit-ups, a 1.5-mile run and a tape measurement of abdominal circumference.
The PFT is composed of the following tests, in order. There is a minimum score of 75 points.
- Body composition - the Tape Test
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- 1.5-mile run
The fitness assessment includes a waist circumference tape measure, in which the abdominal circumference for men can't exceed 39 inches, while women can't exceed 35.5 inches. In 2013, a new physical fitness standard for airmen was implemented, for those who fail the tape test but get a composite score of 75 on the rest of the PT test. This includes tough new Body Mass Index and body fat standards - a BMI for both men and women must be below 25. Airmen who fail the BMI screening would have to meet body fat limits: 18 percent for men and 26 percent for women.
US Air Force member performing a pull -up Previous Standards
A change to the Air Force Fitness Test protocol was introduced on January 1, 2004. The program replaced the annual ergo-cycle test that the Air Force used for several years. The new fitness assessment consisted of four areas: body composition, aerobic fitness (running), push-ups, and crunches (sit-ups).
During initial entry processing, both men and women are required to pass a Physical Fitness Test (PFT) that measures cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance and mobility. The test consists of 2-mile run, push-ups, sit-ups.
In addition to initial entry physical fitness requirements, the Air Force has an annual fitness test requiring a passing score. The PFT is taken every fall and spring term while a cadet is enrolled in US Air Force ROTC. Cadets in the GMC not on scholarship must attempt the test but do not have to pass. Scholarship cadets and cadets in the POC, however, must pass the test each fall and spring term. All events must be completed. There is a short rest period between each event.
In 2007 the "marginal" category was eliminated, and the test is now be either pass or fail. Previously, Airmen who scored below 70 on the fitness test failed, and those who scored between 70 and 74.9 received a marginal rating, while Airmen who scored 75 or above passed. With the change, any score below 75 is considered a fail, and Airmen will have to retest within 90 days.
Disclaimer
The workplace assessment tests listed here are believed to be accurate at the time it was accessed. Testing protocols and standards are often changed. Please see official sources for accurate up to date information. If you have corrections please contact me or use the comments form below.
Related Pages
- For more examples, see the pages on fitness testing for Navy, Army, Law Enforcement (Police), Fire Department, and general tests.
- About the US defence force tape test
- Poll: Should women have the same fitness testing standards as men?
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
Current Events