Army Basic Training is challenging for men and women alike. It is both mentally and physically demanding. Candidates are trained in military drill, history, etiquette, weaponry, policy and uniform presentation. Male and female candidates participate in this rigorous academic and practice program together. Regardless of gender, everyone is treated to the same intensive intellectual restructuring that turns candidates into precise military professionals.

Candidates must also meet minimum Army Physical Fitness Test (PFT) scores to graduate. While both men and women work on classroom learning and drill practice in the same ways, there are differences in scoring the PFT for men and women, based on the physiological differences between men and women. Candidates in different age brackets also face different requirements in the PFT.

Age Ain't Nothing But A Number...

Age may only be a number, especially in youth, but it has a major impact on physical capabilities, as does gender. Men are, generally speaking, stronger than women. In order to provide for all of the Army's needs for skilled personnel, the physical requirements are modified by age and gender, so as not to preclude skilled military personnel by unfair tests. At the same time, both men and women alike are pushed beyond their self-imposed limits while attending Army Basic Training.

To graduate from Army Basic Training, candidates must pass the Physical Fitness test (PFT) with a minimum score of 50 points in each of three events: sit-ups, push-ups and running. These tests are used to evaluate physical strength, stamina and cardiovascular fitness. A special Physical Fitness Badge is awarded to those individuals who score 270 or higher on their PFT. Remedial training is available for those unable to pass their initial PFT.

Test Requirements

Requirements vary by age and gender and each result is assigned a number score. The Army PFT challenges candidates to complete as many push-ups within a 2 minute period as they can. The minimum number of push-ups for a passing score is 35 for a 17-year old male, while a female of the same age is only required to perform 13 push-ups. A 27-year old male must do at least 30 push-ups and a female candidate of that age must be able to do at least 10.

After a brief rest, candidates are asked to complete as many sit-ups as they can in 2 minutes. Both male and female 17-year olds are required to perform at least 47 sit-ups, whereas a 27-year old male must perform at least 67 and a 27-year old female is required to do at least 36 sit-ups. Finally, candidates perform a timed 2 mile run. The 17-year old male is required to complete this 2 mile run in 16:36 minutes or less, while the female runner must finish within 19:42. A 27-year old male is given 17:54 and a female is given 25:12. Of course, higher reps and lower run times mean better scores and a greater chance at promotion later on.

Preparing for the Army Basic Training PFT requires a consistent commitment of time and effort. Making time each day to perform these skills before arriving at Army Basic Training will make passing the Army PFT that much easier. Regular exercise is good for everyone. As a member of the United States Army, it is a career investment.