In this post, I would like to review the APFT Scoring. When it comes to APFT Scoring, there are a few things you need to know.
# 1 Scoring is on a 0 to 100 Scale
On the APFT there are three events: push-ups, sit-ups and a 2-mile run (assuming you don’t have a profile). These three events are graded on a 0 to 100 scale. To pass the APFT, you must score a minimum of 60 points in each event. The standards vary by age and gender so two people with the same number of repetitions could have a different score.
# 2 There is an Extended Scale
For the APFT Studs, there is an extended scale. This is when people go beyond the 100 point maximum. I’ve seen some select people score a 110 or 120 or higher in a single event. I’m not sure exactly where the APFT Extended Score stops, but it does go up at least 20 points.
# 3 The “Grader” Calculates Your Score
As you perform your APFT, your grader will keep track of your score. If you do a repetition wrong, it won’t be counted. At the end of each event, your grader will record the number of repetitions that you did (or record your run time) and will calculate your total score at the end of your Army Physical Fitness Test.
# 4 If You Fail One Event, You Fail Your Entire APFT
When you fail one APFT Event, you fail your entire test. And it doesn’t matter if you scored 100 points in two different events. If you score less than 60 points in one event, you fail the entire test.
# 5 If You Have a Profile or Alternate Event, You Can’t Max the APFT
If you have a profile or do an alternate event, you cannot max the APFT. The grader simply writes in your time and if you pass, you get a score of 60 points for that event.
Final Thoughts
These are the most common things I know about when it comes to APFT Scoring. If I left something out feel free to let me know by leaving a comment to this post. Also, if you have any questions, you can ask them below. Thank you.
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
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I realize the acronym is explained in the Read More section and within the article, but just in case, APFT = Army Physical Fitness Test. I guess an alternative event would be … for example the 2.5 mile Walk Test in place of the 2 mile run? What to do if one fails it? If people train seriously with a group for triathlons 4 – 5 days per week, I think they will pass the APFT. Me, personally, I would ace the 2 mile run but sink on the situps and pushups because I don’t swim, do abdominal work and such. I do lift weights, but not enough to do the number of pushups needed.
Everyone is definitely different, but as long as I am doing some kind of working out, no matter what it is, I can pass. If i start training specifically, i.e. sprints and weights, and bodyweight exercises, I can do very well on the APFT.
I am sure it would seem to some that the APFT requirements of passing all events in the Army Physical Fitness Test are unfair. However, given the physical requirements required of soldiers in combat situations, such rigorous demands would likely help protect service members from harm. I would imagine the ability to score above 100 generates a lot of friendly competition amongst the soldiers and incentive for all soldiers to do their best.
Passing the APFT is not all that difficult to do. During my 15 years in the Army, they frequently lowered the standards for height and weight, body fat, and the APFT. Most Active Duty Soldiers can pass the APFT with ease, but many ARNG and USAR Soldiers struggle with it.
I agree with Chuck. Also, you are totally right, Neil. Friendly competition is what keeps us going. Soldiers try to outdo one another all the time, and it keeps things fun. I love seeing my Soldiers try to outrun each other!