The Army is set to implement a new fitness test policy requiring senior officers, including Brigadiers, Major Generals, and Lieutenant Generals, to undergo physical fitness assessments twice annually. This initiative, known as the Combined Physical Test (CPT), will take effect in April of next year. The CPT merges the existing battle physical efficiency test (BPET) and the physical proficiency test (PPT). Previously, only officers and soldiers up to age 50 were required to clear these tests.
Under the new CPT, the age limit for fitness testing has been extended to 60 years. This means that senior officers will now be required to participate in the CPT, with supervision up to age 55 and self-assessment from 55 to 60. The CPT will involve a 3.2-km run or brisk walk with a 4.5 kg load, as well as push-ups, sit-ups, and vertical rope climbing. Failing to achieve a minimum grade on the CPT will have implications for promotions.
In related news, the U.S. Army officially adopted the Army Fitness Test (AFT) on June 1, 2025, replacing the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). The AFT includes updated scoring standards emphasizing readiness and combat effectiveness. Soldiers have until January 1, 2026, to meet the new AFT requirements without facing adverse actions. The AFT is a five-event assessment that includes the three-repetition maximum deadlift, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, plank, and two-mile run. The standing power throw event is no longer a requirement.
Active-duty soldiers in 21 designated combat specialties must meet a more rigorous combat standard of a minimum score of 350 points total, with a minimum of 60 points in each event. The passing score for all other specialties is 300 points, with a minimum of 60 points in each event. The decision to replace the ACFT with the AFT followed 18 months of analysis and feedback from thousands of test iterations. The Army describes the change as a data-driven reform focused on consistency and combat-effective fitness.
