AFT Standards 2026: Making Sense of the New Scoring and Events

The landscape of military fitness has shifted significantly. As of 2026, the Army Fitness Test (AFT) has fully integrated into the force, marking a departure from the previous Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). This transition isn't just a name change; it represents a refined approach to measuring functional fitness, lethality, and long-term soldier health. With the latest scoring updates now active for the regular Army and the June deadline approaching for the Reserve and National Guard, understanding the nuances of the AFT standards 2026 is essential for every soldier aiming to maintain readiness.

The Shift from ACFT to AFT

The evolution of the Army’s fitness assessment stems from years of data collection and physiological research. The most notable change in the AFT is the permanent removal of the Standing Power Throw (SPT). While the SPT was intended to measure explosive power, analysis suggested a higher correlation with injury risk compared to its predictive value for combat tasks. By streamlining the test to five core events, the Army focuses on muscular strength, endurance, anaerobic capacity, and aerobic stamina.

For most soldiers, the transition means adjusting to a system that prizes consistent performance across fewer events. The maximum possible score is now 500 points—100 for each event—with a baseline passing requirement of 60 points per event. However, the total score needed to pass varies based on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).

Understanding the 2026 Scoring Tiers

One of the most critical aspects of the AFT standards 2026 is the distinction between General and Combat MOS requirements. The scoring logic is designed to ensure that those in high-demand physical roles meet a threshold that matches the rigors of the battlefield.

The General Standard

For soldiers in non-combat enabling roles, the AFT maintains a sex-normed and age-normed scoring scale. This acknowledges physiological differences across demographics while ensuring a baseline level of fitness.

• Minimum Passing Score: 300 total points.
• Event Minimum: 60 points in each of the five events.

The Combat Standard (21 Designated MOS)

Soldiers holding any of the 21 designated combat specialties are held to a more rigorous, sex-neutral standard. This means men and women in these roles are graded on the same scale, which is aligned with the historic male scoring tables. This change ensures that everyone performing high-intensity tasks like infantry maneuvers or armor operations possesses the same physical capability.

• Minimum Passing Score: 350 total points.
• Event Minimum: 60 points in each event.
• Applicable MOS: Includes 11A (Infantry Officer), 11B (Infantryman), 12B (Combat Engineer), 13F (Fire Support Specialist), 18 series (Special Forces), and 19 series (Armor/Cavalry).

Deep Dive: The Five AFT Events

To succeed under the AFT standards 2026, you must master the technical requirements of each event. Graders are increasingly focused on strict form to prevent "no-reps" and ensure data integrity across the force.

1. 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)

The MDL measures lower-body strength and core stability. It is the primary indicator of a soldier's ability to lift heavy equipment or evacuate a casualty. Unlike a standard barbell deadlift, the AFT utilizes a hex bar, which allows for a more neutral grip and reduces strain on the lower back.

• Execution: You must complete three continuous repetitions. Dropping the bar or failing to lock out at the top results in a failed attempt.
• 2026 Benchmarks: For the 22-26 age group in a combat MOS, the 60-point minimum is 150 lbs. To max out with 100 points, you generally need to pull 340+ lbs.

2. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP)

This event tests upper-body muscular endurance. The "T-arm extension" is now the standard movement. Starting from the prone position, you push up to a full lockout, lower back down, extend your arms out to the sides to form a 'T', and then return hands to the starting position for the next rep.

• Common Pitfalls: "Snaking" the body off the ground or failing to maintain a rigid core are the most common reasons for disqualified repetitions.
• 2026 Benchmarks: A 25-year-old soldier in a non-combat role needs roughly 14 reps for 60 points. Combat MOS soldiers should aim for significantly higher volume to support their 350-point total requirement.

3. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)

Widely considered the most grueling part of the test, the SDC is a 250-meter shuttle that simulates moving under fire, dragging a wounded comrade, and carrying ammunition. It consists of five 50-meter laps: sprint, 90lb sled drag, lateral shuffle, two 40lb kettlebell carry, and a final sprint.

• Technical Tip: On the sled drag, you must pull the sled backward. Turning your body to run forward with the sled is a violation. Ensure the entire sled crosses the line before starting the next lap.
• 2026 Benchmarks: For most age groups, a time under 2:30 is necessary for a passing score. High-performers often finish in under 1:40.

4. Plank (PLK)

Replacing the leg tuck permanently, the plank is a pure test of core endurance. It requires maintaining a straight line from head to heels while resting on forearms and toes.

• Standards: The event ends if a knee, hip, or any part of the body other than hands, forearms, or feet touches the ground. Verbal warnings are given for sagging or arching the back.
• 2026 Benchmarks: Minimum times for 60 points range from 1:10 to 1:30 depending on age. To max this event, soldiers typically need to hold the position for over 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

5. 2-Mile Run (2MR)

The final event assesses aerobic endurance. It is conducted on a flat, improved surface. While it remains a traditional run, the scoring tables have been adjusted to reflect the fatigue accumulated from the previous four high-intensity events.

• Strategy: Pacing is key. Because the SDC depletes anaerobic stores, the 2MR requires a disciplined start to avoid burnout in the final mile.
• 2026 Benchmarks: For the 17-21 age group, a passing time is approximately 19:57. For older cohorts, the time window widens slightly, acknowledging the physiological changes that occur with age.

Detailed Score Chart Analysis (Ages 22-26)

To provide a clearer picture of what is required, let's look at the specific numbers for the most common age demographic in the Army. The following are the 60-point (minimum pass) requirements for the 22-26 age group:

It is important to note that while the individual event minimums are the same for Combat MOS and Non-Combat Males in this bracket, the Combat MOS soldier must perform significantly better in at least some events to reach the required 350 total points, whereas the Non-Combat soldier only needs to reach 300 total points.

Policy Implementation and Administrative Actions

The Army has allowed for a transition period, but as of early 2026, the stakes have become real. For active-duty soldiers, AFT scores are now officially recorded and used for promotion points, selection boards, and school eligibility.

Retesting and Failure

If a soldier fails to meet the minimum standards, the Army's policy on administrative action is clear but offers a path to recovery. Active-duty and AGR soldiers generally have 90 days to retest following a record failure. For the National Guard and Reserve, the window is typically 180 days. Persistent failure to meet the AFT standards can lead to a "flagging" action, which prevents promotions, awards, and attendance at professional military education (PME). Continued failure may lead to administrative separation or reclassification out of combat MOS roles.

Permanent and Temporary Profiles

Soldiers with permanent profiles that prevent them from taking certain events must still meet the intent of the test. Generally, they must pass the events they are cleared for and complete an authorized alternate aerobic event (such as the 5,000-meter row, 12,000-meter bike, or 1,000-meter swim). Under the AFT standards 2026, profiled soldiers in combat MOS roles must typically average a score of 70 points across the events they do take to maintain their specialty status.

Training Strategies for 2026 Success

Simply "doing more push-ups" is no longer an effective strategy for the AFT. The variety of physical demands requires a programmed approach.

Periodization and Strength

Focus on a three-day strength split emphasizing the deadlift, overhead press, and squat. The MDL requires grip strength and posterior chain power. Incorporating farmer's carries and weighted lunges will pay dividends not just in the MDL, but also in the SDC sled drag and kettlebell carry.

Anaerobic Conditioning

The Sprint-Drag-Carry is often where scores plummet. To improve here, training should include high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Shuttles of 50 meters with weight transitions simulate the specific metabolic demands of the SDC. Aim for work-to-rest ratios of 1:2 or 1:3 to build recovery capacity.

Core and Stability

Since the plank is now the core standard, static holds are vital. However, dynamic core work like "dead bugs" and "bird-dogs" helps build the deep stability required to keep the hips level during the SDC lateral and the HRP. Gradually increasing plank duration by 10 seconds each week is a proven way to reach the three-minute mark.

Aerobic Recovery

The 2-mile run isn't just a test of speed; it's a test of recovery. Incorporate one long, slow distance run (4-5 miles) per week to build the aerobic base, combined with 800-meter intervals at a pace slightly faster than your target AFT 2-mile pace.

Conclusion: Consistency Over Intensity

The AFT standards 2026 are designed to produce a more versatile and durable soldier. While the increased requirements for combat MOS roles may seem daunting, the phased implementation provided ample time for preparation. The key takeaway for soldiers across all components is that physical readiness is a daily requirement, not a once-a-year event. By focusing on form, understanding the specific scoring benchmarks for your age and MOS, and training with a balanced approach to strength and endurance, you can ensure that you are not just meeting the standard, but exceeding it. Staying ahead of these requirements is fundamental to career progression and, more importantly, to the combat readiness of the unit.