This post covers the APFT Walk Standards.
Please know that some soldiers have permanent profiles or long-term temporary profiles (more than three months) and cannot do the 2-mile run on their APFT.
As a result, the Army has created an alternate event, the 2.5 mile walk. Soldiers must complete this event without running or jogging.
From what some soldiers have told me, this event is actually quite challenging and is even more difficult than the 2-mile run.
The event is not scored. Instead it is a pass/fail event.
Normally, the 2.5 mile walk event is conducted on a 1/4 mile track or on a paved road. Most soldiers prefer to do this event walking 1.25 miles out and 1.25 miles back on a road. That’s a lot easier than doing 10 laps on a 1/4 mile track.
The intent of the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) is to provide an assessment of the
PRT program. Physical fitness testing is designed to ensure the maintenance of a base
level of physical fitness essential for every Soldier, regardless of Army MOS or duty
assignment. ~ marist.edu
Here are the APFT Walk Standards by age group and gender.
| Age | Male | Female |
| 17-21 | 34 | 37 |
| 22-26 | 34:30 | 37:30 |
| 27-31 | 35 | 38 |
| 32-36 | 35:30 | 38:30 |
| 37-41 | 36 | 39 |
| 42-46 | 36:30 | 39:30 |
| 47-51 | 37 | 40 |
| 52-56 | 37:30 | 40:30 |
| 57-61 | 38 | 41 |
| 62+ | 38:30 | 41:30 |
This information is as of 2012. Please check FM 21-20 to make sure the APFT Walk Standards have not changed since then.
Eligibility for the 2.5 Mile Walk
Here is what I found in FM 7-22 to be eligible for the walk.
A-40. Soldiers on permanent physical profile are given a DA Form 3349. This form annotates exercises and activities suitable for the profiled Soldier. The form also stipulates the events and/or alternate aerobic event the Soldier will do on the APFT. The Soldier must perform all regular APFT events his profile permits. Each Soldier must score a minimum of 60 points on each regular event taken to PASS. The profiled Soldier must complete the alternate aerobic event in a time equal to or less than the one listed in Table A-1. The Soldier must receive a minimum passing score in the alternate event taken to PASS the test. Soldiers profiled for two or more events must take the two-mile run or an alternate aerobic event to PASS the test. Soldiers who cannot perform the 2-mile run or an alternate aerobic event cannot be tested. There is no point score annotated on the DA Form 705 for the performance of alternate aerobic events. These events are scored as a GO or NO GO.
A-41. Soldiers with temporary physical profiles must take a regular three event APFT after the profile has expired. Soldiers with temporary profiles of long duration (more than three months) may take an alternate aerobic event as determined by the commander with input from health-care personnel. Once the profile has been lifted, the Soldier must be given twice the length of the profile (not to exceed 90 days) to train for the regular three event APFT. If a regularly scheduled APFT occurs during the profile period, the Soldier should be given a mandatory make-up date for the APFT.
The Debate
There is some controversy within the Army about the 2.5 mile walk (just ask around in any unit).
Some people have the mindset that if you can’t do the regular APFT, you should be discharged from the Army. Some people believe that the walk is for people trying to ‘get out’ of the run.
Others believe that it is a legitimate event for people with a temporary or permanent medical condition that prevents them from running. I’m not really sure how I feel about this event.
Recently, I decided for myself to do the walk on my own to see how strenuous it would be.
I will first say that it can be quite hard not to just pick up that pace slightly by jogging a few steps, so on my first go of it, I had to disqualify myself because I know I jogged slightly, and my time was 33:48.
I decided to do it correctly 2-days later and wow, it is hard. My time was 35:28, so I would have passed, but I must admit that I would much rather do the run than the walk.
If you believe that the walk is easy, I suggest you do it. I also suggest you have someone watch you to judge if you do it correctly. After you have done so, feel free to share your time and comments with us.
What Others Are Saying?
I had been an escort a few times when I was stationed at Ft Lewis. The course we used put runners/walkers out of site of the graders so the walkers had to have an NCO escort with them. I hated the walk. I can walk for miles at my own pace, but I would rather run it. You don’t have much time to train for it. Read the regulation/FM for physical fitness and learn what the standards are for the walk. Do NOT try to jog a portion of the course. If you are caught jogging part of it, the event could be terminated and you could fail the test.
Had a MSG who had me pace her for the walk, NOT to help her pace, but to carry the PT jacket when she got too hot. Oh, I was in ACUs, the walk in boots majorly sucks.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that the APFT Walk Standards are designed for soldiers who can’t do the 2-mile run (due to medical reasons). If you’ve done this event yourself, please tell us about it. Do you think the walk was harder than the run event, or easier? Leave a comment below to let me know what you think. I look forward to hearing from you.
Mixing your workouts will increase your muscle strength, lung capacity, and muscle
mass. Changing up your runs each week will build your speed and endurance much
more efficiently than running at the same pace each time. ~ Citizen-Soldier Magazine
Updated Thoughts
We have seen a lot of comments on this subject, and one of the primary ones that has been drastically eating at me is the fact that when one of your fellow soldiers; one of your teammates is doing the walk and others did the run, they just leave without giving that soldier some inspiration.
C’mon…
Is that what the Army is all about? Leave a soldier behind? To be quite honest, if I were your First Sergeant, I would be eating all of you alive.
You may not agree with the walk, but it is in the books and you should man or woman up and accept it and help out your fellow soldier.
The beer will still be cold in 20-minutes or so. Remember… No Soldier Left Behind, and that includes APFT events.
Suggested Reading
- How to Fast Track Your Military Career
- Top Military Career Tips
- DA Form 4856 Tips
- Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way
- Top 10 National Guard Benefits
Chuck Holmes
Former Army Major (resigned)
Publisher, Part-Time-Commander.com
Email: mrchuckholmes@gmail.com
Suggested Resources
Our Books & Training Courses
Recommended Reading List
It’s amazing that some feel as if “walkers” should be kicked out of the Army. Unfortunately, due to post-pregnancy complications, I am a walker for the time being. Mind you, I have been a runner for the first 13 years of my career. Walking allows my body to heal, as well still maintain my physical fitness standards. Working in the medical field, I am still very competent at my job, and can still perform my duties in a combat zone.
Thanks for sharing your perspective, Kristin. I’ll be the first to admit that I used to think that the “walkers” were slackers, but as I have aged and matured, I realize that there are many circumstances where it is needed. Pregnancy, injuries, aging and countless other things. Plus, as long as you can do your Army job, it doesn’t really matter if you are a walker or runner. Thanks for your service.
Appreciate this post. As a 50-year-old male with 30 years in service, I have not run on an APFT since 2011 — thanks to standard-issue arthritis and cartilage loss.
But, I admit that I have never done the walk. As a former triathlete, both the 800-yard swim and the 10-km bike events are easy for me.
However, this morning I walked the Camp Arifjan Patriot Day 5K and at the 2.5 mile mark, I was right at 33:00 — so, if I ever did choose to do the walk, I’d pass it with relative ease as well.
Thanks for sharing your story, Dallas. Sorry to hear about your injury. I’m glad to hear the walk is easy for you. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
I am a 41yo male and I conducted the walk this morning. I pushed as hard as I could and got. 29:53. It feels very weird speed walking or ruck-style speed walking, but alternating those two styles helps tremendously. Try it out folks; ruck-walk is leaning forward and swinging your arms to their full range.
Yes, I have some seen some ruck walkers do the walk at a very good pace. There is definitely a strategy to doing it effectively.
I agree, the walk is difficult and I come in at around 32:45, age 46. On profile means: you are dealing with injuries and still doing APFT events and some will never understand until it happens to them. This pace must stay upbeat and you have to do each lap in 3 to 3 1/2 min., but with practice anything is possible. I find it to be more mental agility than anything to stay on pace with 10 laps on a track. I did the run for over 20 years, but with wear and tear on anybody, I have severe knee issues and plantar fasciitis in one of my feet. I also have a sciatic nerve that is excruciating with pain that goes from my left leg to my lower back…, frustrating, but I cope with it daily! Again, like everyone else I want to continue to serve my country and also think that this is in the regulation for a reason. To have bias judgment on others is disappointing to see in some of the comments, but like many, I never thought I would ever have to do the walk since I usually run 2 miles in 13 minutes. Those days are long gone and over time injuries have caught up with me. Very interesting to see all the thoughts on this subject.
When I got back from Iraq, sciatica had set in and I could barely walk. I would recommend seeing a chiropractor. Mine helped me get mobile again and eventually I could run again. I hope this can help you.
It’s easy to judge others until they have walked in the other person’s shoes. I respect anyone who passes whatever physical requirement the Army expects of them. If someone has to do the walk, so be it. Injuries happen. Old age happens. Plus, combat happens. People should be much more understanding of others.
Back in 1997, I was in a military vehicle accident at Camp Atterbury, IN. To make a long story short, my left knee hit the seat-back of the HMWWV I was riding in, and WHAM! What was done, was DONE. Since that time, I became a walker.
When I take my APFT (even as a retiree/contractor, who is now teaching Army ROTC, I still am required to take the APFT)… I still look forward to the walk. In between my accident and my retirement (almost 20 years) whenever I had to do the 2.5 mile walk, and when I finished / gave my time to the grader, I kept walking.
Usually there was another one (1) or two (2) other walkers who I could motivate enough to have them keep walking, and thus pass their own APFT. While I hated the walk – I’d rather be running – I knew that I by my walking, I helped those other soldiers who were struggling.
Sorry you hurt your knee. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.
I am a 54 year old NCO with no cartilage in my right knee. This was caused by arthritis eroding away the cartilage over many years. I used to run 3 to 6 miles a day until I turned 50. I have been doing the walk now for 3 years. My time limit is 37:30, today I did it in 32:20. There was a sergeant from an SF unit that paced me for the last 2 laps and he was hurting. You definitely use different muscles in your legs walking versus running. Yes, the walk does suck and I wish I could run again, but those days are over. And yes, I am in pain with every step I take. Afterwards, my knee is very swollen and I am limping for a couple of days after the APFT, but at least I can still serve. I just signed my last enlistment (indef) 3 weeks ago. That was a sad moment.
Thank you for your service Patrick.
I was a young E5 in 2003 needed to go to PLDC(BCL), but due to a knee surgery and long profile, I was forced to do the 2.5 mile walk. I passed and went to school, but right before I went to school, I went to my doctor and practically beg to lift my profile. One thing i knew for sure, I never again wanted to try that 2.5 mile walk. Anyone who thinks the 2.5 mile walk is unfair advantage, I suggest you try it.
Yes, it is much easier said than done. I encourage anyone to try it before they knock it.
I used to be a marathon runner, decent times if 10:00 minute pace until 52. Then I developed cervical neck stenosis and radiculopathy (numbness in my shoulders and arms) with running. WCut out marathons for 1/2s, then went to 5miles then went to Ortho. Informed I needed surgery but not willing to do that as I’m too concerned about spine injury. Went to a walk profile and i honestly would prefer the run. Just can’t tolerate such.
I guess I’d be concerned if I were a 68B, but I’m a 54 year old physician.
I’m glad for the walk as I can still serve.
I do miss the old days as I was quite the 2 miler. (Was on track team).
Hang tuff.
Yes, the walk seems easier, but if you have to walk the PT test, chances are your walking in pain somewhere in your knees, or ankles that don’t let you run. I would like the Army to change the PT test all together. I understand the Physical Fitness aspect, but I never go on a deployment and have to run 2 miles during my duties or believe it really helps people. A good ruck march with the unit is a good workout.
Body type makes a difference with the walk…. for most people the pace is actually grueling. Whenever I finished mine my whole body was burning face legs arms… and I was winded to boot. In my running days I was winded maybe had a cramp and my legs were tired.
I have had some Bad Leadership in my Military Career. When you have a commander who thinks shaming a soldier with medical problems is a good thing. He is wrong.
I have been dealing with Pain for 10 plus years. I’m in a good company,
but when you have a bad commander not naming any names. then it is not good.
My profile is no push ups no sit ups no run and limited walking. I get passed up for promotions, and everything else. I show up for all my duty’s even if I cannot perform them I still show up to support my
fellow soldiers. I think the 2 mile run is BS. I did not join the military to run. But to be shamed not understanding how a soldier is dealing with his or her problem just adds to crap upper ranks don’t want to deal with. The Bullshit we put up with when you try doing right. Gets you not a Dam Thing. so now I have this Pissed off Fuck it will Punch you in the Face Attitude.. Don’t like it Don’t Care…
Feel sorry for the next company that gets the Dick Head.
I understand your anger, but I did have to delete the name of the Captain. This is both for your and our good. I really hope things work better for you.
What needs to be revisited is the height weight stuff. The smartest student at my AIT was a big bull necked boy but he maxed all three events. They still had him doing PT twice daily. He was chaptered out. He got to retain his GI bill benefits. He was the best Arabic radio voice intercept linguist and he was booted out just prior to Desert Storm.
I agree. There are a lot of factors. Everyone’s body is different. I’ve met some people who failed HT/WT, but maxed out the APFT. I’ve also met some very healthy looking people who couldn’t pass the APFT. I’m not sure what the remedy is, but hopefully the Army is at least considering some different options.
Jacob Seavello perfect response. It falls back on the individual. A surgeon could look at some soldiers and say "Because of XYZ you will never again be able to do ABC". And some will believe that and repeat it when asked. "I'd love to XYZ but doc said blah blah blah.." Other soldiers – these USED to be the majority– walk out and say aloud or to themselves: "I'll show that old so and so. " And they resolve to prove the doctor wrong.
This is a great point. Being mentally tough can make a big difference with a speedy recover. Of course, some injuries are almost impossible to overcome. That being said, when you have a good, positive outlook, it normally makes a big difference.
Lotsa folks will tell you it is easier. And they are right.
On the walk you gotta hustle on the run I used to alternate sprint with leisurely jog.
I tried the walk myself, just for the fun of it, and I thought it was much easier than the 2 mile run. Just my experience though.
With all the push to shrink and downsize and boot out folks from the active component I suspect the P2 walk profile folks will next come under the gun. But with medcom it's different and it should be. Yes, I want the 68W or corpsman to be in good shape. He or she will be tasked with evacuating wounded folks. Even after trauma scissors cut away IBA most adult soldiers are quite heavy. So enlisted medics need strength and agility but the surgeons and anesthesia folks? I'm okay with them just doing the walk event.
I can definitely understand different MOSs and specialties having difficult physical requirements. You hit the nail on the head!
The walk is no leisurely stroll. All who think it is easy have obviously never done it. I have had expert top notch medical NCO at E8 1SG level who have done the walk.
Yes, it is much easier said than done. People are quick to judge others.
I ran 2mi in 14 min at Ft Leonard Wood. Bad knee and bad lungs (burning oil inhalation in Kuwait) make me a walker but in Medcomm we have older soldiers: surgeons, nurses therapists. Hence no shame or stigma in walking. I'd like to believe with all the med boards and wounded warriors WTU stuff we would no longer be looking at the walkers the way we did in the late 80s when I was enlisted troop.
Times have definitely changed, but certain stigmas are still there: UNFORTUNATELY. I respect anyone who does the walk or run and passes the Army standard.
Unless it is an APFT for a board then it will be the aerobic event score plus 100 is you pass the alternate event divided to get the score for the event you can't do which will give you the necessary points
Thank you for that info.
A score is not recorded for any alternate APFT event, it is simply pass or fail regardless of your time, and the APFT badge cannnot be awared to someone that cannot complete a regular APFT. However, promotion points may be awarded by taking the arithmetic mean of regular events that the Soldier completes.
Thank you for providing that information Justin.
I would like to know how this is officially scored. if you get 100 on the push ups and sit ups should your score be 260??
The walk is simply a pass or fail event. It doesn’t count toward your total score.
It's a hard event and I miss running, even though I wasn't the best at it. Running was definitely easier then the walk. I became a walker after I was injured at an annual training. My former unit offered zero support after my injury or for my recovery, which included surgery. If you weren't perfect you didn't matter. After almost 2 years to recover it was slightly anti climatic to take the walk test and only have a couple other walkers and the grader left because everyone else left when the runners were done. So yes, the walk is hard and typically there isn't the same amount of support or cheering for you to get it done, and you never have the chance to max a PT Test again. But I am greatul for the chance to keep serving even if can't run anymore and to be currently be in a great unit.
Thank you for sharing this. It isn’t something that people really think of, but those who are doing the walk should get just as much support as the runners. I am happy you are hanging in there and showing that you are still a faithful soldier.
Sorry to hear your unit didn’t support you during the APFT walk event. They should have. You have a good outlook on things and I’m sure you will have a great career. Thanks for serving.
I spent about 15 years in the Army and never did this event. I’ve been out for almost four years now. Two days ago I decided to give it a try. The standard for a 38 year old male is 36 minutes. I completed it in 35:44.
I should note that I’m not in the greatest shape now, and I am a bit overweight. I never practiced for the event. It was a bit challenging, but I don’t think it’s as hard as the the two mile run, which I did my entire career.
Just my thoughts. Do you prefer the walk or the run?
At 53 years old, I think I am going to go and give the walk a try. I am not in the best shape anymore, But I am quite curious how well I could do.
I do also believe that the environment can play a part in it too. I haven’t seen many people mention that, but if you live in a mountain area, there is less oxygen which can slow times down slightly.
I believe the Army should consider some of the other factors.
I have a walking profile, I have pins and screws in my right ankle and just had my ACL and Meniscus reconstructed. I'm by no means a fast runner @an average of a 15:30 2 mile. my knee and ankle would swell up from the run and remain that way for a week. I just did my first walk last summer and it was tougher then the run. I got actually got DQ my first time because a spotter said I had a slight jogging appearance (trying to stretch my calves and my shins were on fire). I went back out and completed it in 29 min out of the 35:30 I have to do it in but it was by no means an easy way out.
I agree it’s not an easy way out. I wish you a speedy recovery so you can be healthy again. Thanks for your service.
I had a walk profile in 2012 due to extensive back injury. The APFT was very challenging and throughout the walk all I wished for was being able to run again. I received a pass score of 29 minutes in age 31 category. My injuries have since returned when trying to run so I fear I will receive a walk profile once again after discussing medboard options. Also I started using YLEO in January 2015 and love the results!
Hi April. I wish you a speedy recovery on your injury. If you get a permanent profile, or are stuck doing the walk the rest of your military career, just keep a positive outlook and do the best you can. Thanks for your service.
I'm a runner and I used to give some of the walkers a bad time. A buddy of mine, permanent profile walker, asked me to pace him on his PT test. The walk is difficult and my shins were screaming near the end of it. I would rather do the run.
A lot of people tell me they would rather do the run.
I've been for 23 years, I received the walk profile in 2010. Many runners tell me it's to hard and they would rather run. I have a lower back injury that when I try to run feels like I've been drop kicked. I average a 13-14 minute mile and have walked past "runners". I do 5k, 10k and 1/2 marathons as a walker to help maintain my cardio. I do agree that there are some who do think it's an easy way to skip the run but soon find its to hard. Most people have difficulty keeping up with me walking. I do think we must keep a timed standard.
Thanks for the comment, Emma. More and more people are telling me how hard it is. I’ve never done it myself, but am going to give it a try to see how I do.
Been in the circus going on 33 years. Started out enlisted 11B & later 18B before going to become an officer. Did half of my time with tactical combat units the rest at the other end of the spectrum. I had knee surgery just after 9/11. Was mobilized one month after surgery. Did PT with civilians and military. The military folks thought I was faking. Until they got the surgeons report & saw the damage to my knee. I tried running. I have bone on bone contact. If I had to sprint. I can ( it ain’t pretty). So I have been doing the 2.5 mile walk. My only beef is that it is Pass/Fail. I do it consistently at 32 mins. I should get credit for going 4 mins under the standard. No matter how gifted or strong you are today, gravity will catch up with you. Humping rucksacks, jumping with waaay too much gear, getting banged up in SF, working around light infantry and mech units, jumping out of the back of trucks etc. You will get depleted. It’s OK to have the strong opinions we all have about physical readiness. You earned those opinions. However, I don’t think we should be too harsh on each other compared to the 97 % civilians we serve, who have never been in. You took the oath, you served, you gave the military a blank check. I am so honored to have known some awesome soldiers. Our nation is woefully ill prepared for conscription/draft. If given a weapon, I know you all would stand and fight. I’m more concerned about how fast you can move toward the sound of the guns. I don’t care how you get there. Don’t be too harsh on each other. We don’t have as many of us as you might think. We need to remember that. (Only 3 APFT left before I get put out to pasture.) Godspeed!
Thanks for the great comment, Allen.
Gary Lamb, I was reviewing thoughts and came across your rant, as you've failed to put together a logical point of view. The people involved inside chat, as yourself, have the right to voice what they view or feel. I've recently, after 17 years of service, have been given a P2 for my legs. My four half years serving between Afghanistan and Iraq with 1-503 INF, 1-9 INF, 1-12 INF and a CJSOTF has taken a toll on my body and falling out of a helicopter hasn't done any justice. The ortho doc say right now lets do shots in your back and knees to keep you going today, that tomorrow (retirement) you'll probably need surgery and replacements, but lets not rush it on today's technologies versus tomorrow's possibilities.
The part of your "rant" that I didn't want to carry over and bypass was, "For those that have feelings or comments about DOD policys, regulations, and any other stupid comment you need keep yourwhining and complaints to yourself or get out of military because this why the fucking military is falling apart because your feelings about alternate p.t test. If you or any other person doesn't like things the way they then GET OUT you idiot."
I want you to know it's not that easy to just part ways with the military, and people complaining is not why the military is falling apart. First I would like to hear your ideas on what the measure of merit is to say "falling apart" second where is data to show the difference? Have you completed your history and looked at the military post WW2 and Vietnam to see the difference? Have you viewed policies and politics that have came about since Vietnam or even the Gulf War?
If you care to tell people to "keep your comments to yourself" perhaps people with your experience and issues could be the greater issue inside the complaints. I've been a Senior NCO for sometime, if you try to look at my FB, and I've done everything greater Army has asked me to do.
My personnel view with the 2.5 mile walk and other alternative events is not a good one. The test of function and ability isn't there to compare to a 2 mile run. That my injuries or pain bother me the same on a run and walk.
With all this said, Soldiers need a place a bitch, and they do on the internet. You never roll everyone up into a single idea, in which that's what you did.
I'm really over filling this in, so think about your thoughts.
Amen to what you said Christopher.
I am sorry to hear about the pain and agony you suffer, but it is soldiers like yourself that keep our military strong and enduring. Keep up the fight and don’t let people like Gary get to you.
Question:
A soldier with a PERMANENT profile with the three events approved,
Who determines which of the three alternate events the soldier will do?
The commander or the soldier?
That is a great question. I do not know the answer. If I had to guess I would assume it would be the doctor who decided. Hopefully, someone else can chime in here and provide some feedback.
I believe that, much like most everything else in the military, the unit Commander has the final say. Period.
The specific events are Recommended by medical authority after examination and the Commander disregards that at his/her professional/personal peril. But the Commander does have the final say (at least until HIS Commander hears about it…)
William sends.
Hopefully, the unit commander has some passion toward his injured troops.
The doctor will indicate on said profile which alternate event or events the soldier may compleat with out worsening his or her condition
Let’s face it, as people age, they can get hurt or develop physical problems that keep them from completing the run portion of the AFPT. That doesn’t mean they’ve lost the skills or experience the Army needs – it just means they can’t do the run. If they are in an MOS that requires greater physical abilities, this is going to be a problem. Otherwise, there are plenty of jobs that need to be done.
I agree. Anyone can get hurt. Our bodies become weaker as we get holder. Injuries happen. I also believe it does get abused from time to time, because some soldiers think doing the walk is the easy way out, since they can’t pass the run. I’m not sure how that can be avoided. I’m pretty open minded IF the soldier has a good attitude and actually has something to contribute to the Army. Thanks for the comment.
I have been active duty for 16 years. I have had many soldiers that have been injured, and had to do the 2.5 mile walk. I have. I recently had to go to the 2.5 mile walk. I do however run at own pace a distance. I would much rather run. The walk sucks big time. But really analyze the walk vs. run. How often will you run two miles in combat? How and where would that be relevant? If you have to run two miles away from a bullet then somebody didn’t do their job and you are probably going to die tired. You try the walk. If you are a leader you need to know how it feels anyway. You need to quit crying and learn how to do it, so you can train it. If your troop is slacking on the walk then it’s your fault.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Richard.
I’ve been doing the 2.5 mile walk for the last 10 years. If I had a dollar for every young soldier who thought the walk was easy and tried to keep up with me and failed, I could retire. I’ve been doing this since 1984 and in all those years and multiple deployments, I have never had to RUN more than 40-50 yards at any one time. On the other hand, I can’t count the number of times I’ve had to WALK 2,3,4 or 5 miles in a stretch. IMHO, the 2 mile run serves little, if any, practical purpose
All good points, Bruce. Thanks for your service.
I have my permanent walking profile after fracturing my ankle 3 years ago in April. After the surgery, my right foot is now flat and the ankle isn’t the same. I did my 2 1/2 mile walk. It is a lot harder than it looks. After 12 years of running, I barely made the 36:00 time limit. I use to dog on my fellow soldiers who did the walk.
I hope you get better soon, Eric. Thanks for sharing.
Personally, I think the walk is fine for a temporary profile or for a temporary permanent profile. Many people serve our country well and sustain injuries that necessitate the walk for them so they can move on to get the care they need and deserve. It’s an alternate event for a reason, aka it is not to be the norm. However, I think the real problem here is how does the military keep people from abusing this? I really have no ideas because enforcing a stricter rule about who can and cannot do the 2.5 mile run seems to be a huge disservice to those who actually need the 2 mile walk and would probable end up excluding many of them from the alternate event resulting in failed PT tests and a host of other consequences. Does anyone else have any thoughts on how the military could keep about abusers better?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I think it is important to look at the soldiers performance in other things. Does the soldier have a history of hiding when work is being done, constantly late , and always does a half ### job?
Or… Does the soldier put 110 % into everything he or she does, has a good attitude and is motivated to do what ever needs done? Yes a lot of soldiers are looking to “sham out” of the run. However,A soldier that has proven his or her self to be dedicated and dependable is unlikely to abuse the 2.5 mile walk in my humble opinion
Absolutely. If someone can do their job, and especially if they do it well, that should be taken into consideration.
Today I did my first 2.5 walk (I have arthritis and limited Cartledge in my R. Knee) I do agree that there are those who do abuse this. But after performing it for the first time I can tell you it is hard then it looks. One of the hardest things is the fact you can't run or jog about half way in all I wanted to do is run and the thing over. Next unlike running where if you see you losing time you just push a little harder to make up that time get back on your Pace. Where as on the walk once you fall off your pace it's almost impossible toake up the time.
Very interesting. Good points. Thanks for your comment.
I did the 2.5 mile walk cause of problems with my lower right leg. To say the least the walk is not a joke. I wanted to cry out of pain. It is easily manageable to complete even if you are not in pain, but to get a good passing score you might as well be running
Sorry to hear about your pain. I wish you a quick recovery.
I have a walking profile for tearing my MCL. It is often abused but before my profile my score was a 290 and plus I hate freaking walking, takes too long. I can't wait until I’m back in shape so I can run again.
Wishing you a quick recovery!
I also fractured my hip, while deployed overseas. My injury was caused by the current IBA design, it is engineered for the longer torso of a male soldier and therefore sits directly on the hips of smaller females. Before my injury I was a runner even in the civilian world. I am thankful that the Army has an alternate event for the 2 mile run. Although I can't preform the 2 mile run I can, however, still perform my duties as an 88M (truck driver).
Thanks for sharing your story. I’m glad you are doing better.
I also had issues as a female with the iba. During ruck marches I could feel the gear pushing down on my hips . It was a very strange sensation almost as if the bone was bowing with the pressure . Of course i tried every adjustment possible . I had stress fractures in my right hip and was put on crutches before leaving basic training
In 1999 I fractured my hip during routine PT runs. I love the Army and I tried so hard to rehabilitate. I can run.. I can even run a half marathon these days. However, I could not run in the time-frame that Army standards held for me. Especially at the beginning of my injury and recovery. I am now a disabled vet. I can pass all portions of the PT test. But had I not been given the opportunity to take the walk instead of the run, I may not have been allowed to move on to my permanent duty station and get the long-term care and physical therapy I needed. I did eventually get chaptered out, and I have since strived to keep myself updated with the Army PT standards. Its been 15 years since I fractured my hip, and it has been just this year I can say that I could pass the run within the minimum time frame for my age. It would be really close too. So in my opinion, the walk helped me to always strive to reach the goal.. which was to someday pass the run test again. PS. I have been running consistantly for 4 years… my first mile time was 16 minutes!!! For 1 mile!!! So my gains have been incredible. I am in condition to max out both my pushups and situps at this point! Go Army!!
Thanks for sharing your story, Jenn!
I’m glad you are doing better and can still run well.
This is definitely a touchy subject and there are lots of things (and exceptions) that are not crystal clear or black and white.
I appreciate hearing your side of the story. Have a great day!
This is only my opinion but I would rather run the normal 2 mile course.
I’ve never tried the walk event myself. I will have to do it and compare it with the 2 mile run. Thanks for the comment.
Im 55 years old with a p2 profile and just passed my PT test, my two mile walk time was 18.30, faster then my slowest two mile run time and my 2.5 mile walk was 23 minutes so one can walk fast, I surprised myself but I walk steady and fast. I’m 71 inches tall and 193 lb. I see other walker walk at a slow pace and feel some are probably being lazy!
I think walking is harder than running, especially for a timed test like this. You have to walk fast enough, that sometimes you feel like you may as well run. I tried walking this test once just to see what it felt like, and it is HARD! I would much rather run (even though that hurts too).
Glad to hear you did well on your walk!
Is this really a controversy? I understand a lot of people’s points concerning combat efficiency, but the truth is, for the bulk of the military, it’s irrelevant.
For 99% of us, our ability to run has zero bearing on our ability to do our jobs, even while deployed. If the last decade of war has taught us anything it’s that physical fitness has taken a distant second to intelligence and critical thinking in terms of military relevance.
You might as well decide which math professor you’d like by observing their tree climbing ability.
Good points, Michael.
I appreciate the comment.
Sorry if this riles you, but I would have to disagree. I was given a 11 Bravo MOS and we are all soldiers. I am completely understanding of the walk for some, but the comment you made actually doesn’t fit, because your first job is a soldier. If you are behind enemy lines and you need to get away, you need to run with full gear to do it. So essentially, no, you can’t do your job. I feel that there needs to be stringent policies in place. The Army has lightened up a lot since I was in, and if technology takes a tumble, I believe many soldiers just may tumble too.
Again, sorry if this “gets your goat,” but it is my opinion.
Sorry to disagree, but if you are behind enemy lines and you are having to run 2 miles to get away, you are screwed from the jump. and FWIW, running 2 miles on a PT test wearing shorts and sneakers is a far cry from running 2 miles across uneven terrain wearing full gear and boots.
I think what people fail to realize about MOST walkers is that the factor or not being able to run. It’s being able to run 2 miles. I myself have a permanent profile. And been deployed and rucked in theatre all while have this permanent profile. The the majority of the profiles state to run at your own pace. But you’re not going to be able to do that in a 2 mile 16:36 (my run time if I ran) run.
The profile has never hindered me from doing my job or doing it well and I’ve never had to or knew anybody who had to run 2 miles in combat. Sprint a couple hundred meters yes. But miles no. So please let’s all get our facts straight. And as per the non deployable people, I’ll say this” if they are being useful as rear detachment… let them stay because at the end of the day when people are down range we need there support.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Carlos.
I enjoyed hearing your perspective.
After reading thru all this I finally found someone who makes a whole lot of sense. I am a injured Paratrooper with 16 years in. P2 profile just back from Afghanistan. I am a professional able body Soldier. There is nothing else to say.. SHOOT — MOVE — COMMUNICATE!!!!!!
2.5 mile walk is way harder than 2 mile 13 min run…
After Suzanne gave those figures, I would be much more willing to do the run. To do a walk in that short of period of time with full gear and not be able to at least jog seems almost grueling.
With that said, I am back with the rest. In a wartime situation, you will not be walking, unless your walking to a prison camp after getting captured.
Yes, I agree. If you cannot run, time to find a job that you can walk and not endanger the lives of others.
Thanks for the comment.
It always amazes me when people are so quick to judge. I understand if you know a soldier who is misusing this event but, there are soldiers like myself who have legitimate reasons that need this event. That work with our fellow soldiers in combat on our deployment back on post making sure vehicles are maintained for our mission. Don’t be so quick to throw people out of the service that still want to make a difference. I admire those that can do all events and cheer them on!
Sure, some people need the event, and I support that temporarily. But I do not support Soldiers staying in who can’t take an APFT or deploy for a prolonged period of time (more than a year). Anyone with a permanent profile or in a non-deployable status for a year or longer should be separated from the Army (just my thoughts).
Chuck Holmes,
I will agree to disagree with you, but having a permanent profile does not automatically disqualify someone from deploying. I have a permanent profile and I have deployed 3 times. For the most part, I agree with you that if they are not able to deploy, they should be medically released from service. We do have COAD (Continued on Active Duty) who (the ones I have known) have been severely injured and have fought to stay on active duty. The ones I have known are unable to deploy, but have outworked some of the deployable Soldiers (with the exception of one who used her profile to get out of everything).
Thanks for the comment.
Like I said in the post, my heartburn is with the non-deployable soldiers, mostly.
You are right, some people have a permanent profile and can still deploy, while others don’t.
Thanks for the information.
Chuck
I find it amazing that people in the Army are allowed to do a walk event in lieu of running. In combat, if you’re getting shot at, you don’t walk! I think anyone doing the walk event year after year should be separated from the military.
I agree. Once again, I am not against a temporary walking profile, but I cannot support people with permanent profiles that keep them from running or deploying.
That’s true, but also the walk is harder to do than the run! You almost have to run to complete it in time, anyway! I don’t like swimming or biking, so I wouldn’t want those options either.
Thanks for explaining this for us. I’ve never been a big fan of people doing the walk instead of the run. But I know there isn’t anything I can do about it. Heck, I’m not sure why the “walkers” can even stay in the Army. In combat you need to be able to run and move fast, not walk from point to point.
I agree.
Candidates for this walk standard test … APFT Walk Standards … could read some of the books you have recommended in this blog such as Taking the Guidon while practicing the walk or run on a treadmill. The time standards are not some meandering pace. For example, a 34 minute 2.5 mile walk is a 13.6 minute mile. That is race-walking!
Yes, the walk is designed for a fast pace, but a 13.6 minute mile is doable.
I definitely find that maintaining a good walking pace can be as tiring as a 5 mile run. When you consider the equipment and packs soldiers carry when marching during a mission, I think it hits home how measuring a soldiers walking pace is a good gauge to determining fitness. It would be interesting to see if the APFT were augmented to include walking standards while wearing a full pack.
That would be interesting. To chime in, Neil, many of my former Soldiers who did the 2.5 mile walk instead of the 2-mile run told me that it was much more difficult to do. I’ve never tried the event myself, but I’m sure it’s challenging.
The 2.5 mile walk is definitely harder than the 2 mile run. When I am doing the 2.5 mile walk, in my head I wish that I was running instead. If your profile says you can’t run, then you have to walk. I feel embarrassed that I have to walk and others have to run but I’ve been on both sides and the 2.5 mile run is definitely harder and takes longer. I would rather run.