Strength Training: Incorporating compound lifts such as squats, bench presses, and rows can enhance overall strength, which is beneficial for improving deadlift performance. Accessory exercises like Romanian deadlifts, kettlebell swings, and lunges can also help target the muscles used in the deadlift.
Training for the ACFT requires dedication, consistency, and a strategic approach. Remember to listen to your body, prioritize recovery, and stay focused on your goals. This 4-week plan will help you build the strength, endurance, and skills needed to excel in each event.
Limited Training Opportunities: National Guard and Reserve members often train part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year. Unlike active-duty soldiers who have daily access to training facilities and resources, reservists must balance civilian careers and family commitments, which can hinder their ability to train consistently. This limited time can make it challenging to prepare adequately for the ACFT.
With its six events—deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, plank, and two-mile run—preparing for the ACFT requires a well-structured training plan. The Army Combat Fitness Test (acft perfo) is designed to assess a soldier’s physical fitness and readiness for combat. This article outlines a comprehensive 4-week training plan to help you excel in each component of the ACFT.
To achieve a perfect score, soldiers must excel in all six events, showcasing a well-rounded fitness level. Each event is scored based on performance, with specific standards set for different age and gender groups. The ACFT consists of six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and 2-mile run.
The ACFT has established specific standards that soldiers must meet to achieve passing scores in the 5000 Meter Row. These standards vary based on age and gender, ensuring that all soldiers are assessed fairly. The following table outlines the minimum and maximum passing times for different categories:
Access to Facilities and Equipment: Many National Guard and Reserve units may not have access to the necessary equipment for all ACFT events. For example, while deadlifts and two-mile runs can often be performed with minimal equipment, events like the standing power throw and leg tuck require specific gear that may not be readily available during training weekends. This lack of access can lead to lower performance scores.
Access to Equipment: Ensuring that all units have access to the necessary equipment for the ACFT events is crucial. This can involve investing in portable equipment that can be used during training weekends or partnering with local gyms to provide access to facilities.
Soldiers in these components may not have the same access to training resources as their active-duty counterparts, which can impact their performance on the ACFT. For the National Guard and Reserve, the scoring process involves additional considerations.
The ACFT deadlift is scored based on the maximum weight lifted, with a minimum requirement of 140 pounds for males and 120 pounds for females. The scoring is categorized into performance levels, which are as follows:
Utilizing Technology: Leveraging technology, such as fitness apps and online training platforms, can provide soldiers with additional resources to track their progress and access workout plans tailored to the ACFT.
The ACFT scoring system is designed to be gender- and age-neutral, promoting a fair assessment of all soldiers. The overall score is calculated by summing the scores from each event, with a maximum possible score of 600. To pass the ACFT, soldiers must achieve a minimum score of 360. Each event has specific performance standards, and soldiers must achieve a minimum score to pass.
Point Distribution: The scoring system is linear, meaning that for every second slower than the maximum time, points are deducted from the total score. Passing Score: To pass the ACFT, soldiers must complete the 5000 Meter Row within the minimum time for their age and gender category. Maximum Points: The maximum score for the row is awarded to those who complete the distance in the fastest time specified for their category. This encourages soldiers to aim for their personal best while still allowing for a passing score.
