The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is mandatory for all Marines and active reservists to ensure they are physically fit. The test includes pull-ups, sit-ups, and a 3-mile run. Female Marines do not have to do pull-ups but must complete a bent-arm lockout. Passing the test requires adequate performance on each test, with a composite score that meets the minimum based on age. The Marines also have a Combat Physical Fitness Test (CFT) to further separate fit from unfit.
The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is a test given to Marines to ensure they remain in peak physical condition. Participation in the Marines requires being physically strong and able to handle any situation that may arise, which is why the Marine Corps requires all Marines and active reservists to take and successfully complete this test at least once a year. Those who do not pass are referred to a Remedial Conditioning Program where they receive personalized physical training.
Marines taking the Marine Corps Fitness Test are required to complete 20 pull-ups from a “dead lock” position. The next part of the test requires you to complete up to 100 sit-ups in two minutes. Marines should start with a flat back and then complete the crunch with their arms crossed over their chests. The last part of the test involves completing a 3-mile run as quickly as possible.
Female Marines are also required to complete 100 sit-ups and a three-mile (4.83 km) run, but are not required to do pull-ups. Instead, they should perform a bent-arm lockout, in which the goal is to hang from a pull-up bar with both hands for as long as possible. Getting into the starting position requires you to flex your arms until your chin rests on the bar.
Successful passing of the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test implies adequate performance on each physical fitness test. Males must perform at least 3 pull-ups, 40-50 sit-ups, and run a 33-minute or less mile. Females must complete a mile of 36 minutes or less (1.61 km), 40 to 50 sit-ups and one arm bent for 15 seconds.
The Marine’s composite score must add up to a minimum total based on age. For men and women between the ages of 17 and 26, the minimum is 135. Between 27 and 39 the minimum is 110, between 40 and 45 it is 88, and for Marines 46 and older, the minimum is 65. A Marine who earned the minimum scores to be classified as 3rd class. Ideally, a soldier should be considered at least 2nd class, if not 1st.
Training hard throughout the year is the most important aspect of taking the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test. Many soldiers train briefly before the test and then return to an unhealthy, vegetative lifestyle. To deter such behavior, in 2008 the Marines supplemented the PFT with a Combat Physical Fitness Test (CFT) designed to further separate fit from unfit.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
