POZNAN, Poland-- The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) will become the Army physical test of record by October 2020, replacing the current Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Consisting of six events, the new ACFT will test Soldiers’ mental toughness and stamina and better predict Soldiers’ readiness for a modern battlefield. Training for the ACFT is challenging, and Soldiers with 1st Infantry Division (FWD) (1 ID FWD) face the extra challenge of being deployed overseas while training.
Sgt. Samuel Pettis, a Cavalry Scout based out of Fort Riley, Kansas, has overcome this challenge and continued to train for the ACFT while being deployed with 1 ID (FWD) to Poland in support of Atlantic Resolve.
Many Soldiers, including Pettis, have taken the initiative to join civilian gyms while deployed to non-combat regions to help maintain their physical readiness.
“It can be hard to find the right equipment here, but you just have to get creative,” said Pettis.
The ACFT consists of six events: a 3-repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, head release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a two-mile run – all scored on a 100 point scale. These events are designed to reflect real situations a Soldier may see in combat, a quality that Pettis appreciates.
“I think that the ACFT is more accurate, and will keep Soldiers fit for combat,” said Pettis. “You have to focus on more than just running, you have to really be in shape.”
There are many resources provided for Soldiers both at home and deployed looking to improve their score before the ACFT becomes the Army physical fitness test of record.
For more information Soldiers should refer to Field Manual 7-22, “Army Physical Readiness Training,” or army.mil/acft, for ways to train and prepare for the implementation of the ACFT. Fort Riley Soldiers can also refer to the 1st Infantry Division Post newspaper section, Form Matters, to see examples of beneficial exercises.