ACFT 9.0: New Army Combat Fitness Test Explained (2025)
The ACFT 9.0, often referred to as the next evolution of the Army Combat Fitness Test, represents a significant shift in how the U.S. Army measures soldier readiness. Whether you’re preparing to take the test or helping others train, understanding the latest updates, scoring standards, and training strategies is critical.
With the introduction of the Army Fitness Test (AFT) to replace the ACFT starting June 1, 2025, many soldiers are searching for clarity. This article breaks down what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and how you can dominate the new test.
ACFT Score Chart
What Is ACFT 9.0?
While the U.S. Army hasn’t officially labeled the upcoming AFT as “ACFT 9.0,” the term is being used informally by soldiers and trainers to describe the final version of the ACFT before the AFT becomes the new test of record.
Key changes in ACFT 9.0 / AFT:
- The Standing Power Throw has been removed from the test for some MOSs.
- Scoring is now separated into two categories:
- Combat MOSs: Same standard for all genders (sex-neutral), age-normed.
- Combat-enabling MOSs: Age- and gender-normed.
- The minimum passing score has been adjusted based on MOS type.
This version reflects ongoing efforts by the Headquarters Department of the Army to align fitness testing with real-world demands and job requirements, while still considering fairness and inclusivity.
ACFT 9.0 Events Overview
| Event Name | Fitness Domain | Notes / Updates |
|---|---|---|
| Three-Repetition Maximum Deadlift | Muscular Strength | Must lift max weight 3 times (leg, back, grip strength) |
| Hand Release Push-Ups | Upper Body Endurance | Hands must lift off the ground between reps |
| Two-Mile Run | Aerobic Endurance | Measures cardiovascular fitness |
| Body Composition Evaluation | Body Fat & Readiness | Related to Army Body Composition Programme |
Standing Power Throw (aka Standing Power Toss) was part of the earlier ACFT but is no longer a requirement for some MOSs under AFT.
These events aim to measure not just brute strength or speed, but overall health and readiness in alignment with FM 7-22: Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) principles.
Updated Scoring Standards in ACFT 9.0
The ACFT scoring scales now reflect your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and are divided as follows:
Combat MOSs:
- Total minimum score: 350
- Minimum per event: 60
- Scoring is sex-neutral, meaning male and female soldiers are graded the same
- Age normed
Combat-Enabling MOSs:
- Total minimum score: 300
- Age- and gender-normed scoring
- Minimum per event remains lower than combat MOS
Special Bonus:
- Scoring 465 or higher can exempt a soldier from the Army Body Composition Program
How to Use an ACFT Calculator for ACFT 9.0
An ACFT calculator is essential for tracking your progress, estimating scores, and identifying weak points. You simply input your performance for each event, and the tool will generate your estimated total score.
ACFT Calculator Can Help You:
- Track max efforts (like your best Three-Repetition Maximum Deadlift)
- Log weekly 2-Mile Run times
- Record total Hand Release Push-Ups
- Instantly compare performance with required scores
You can find ACFT calculators on the official Army Fit website or on specialized military fitness platforms.
How to Train for ACFT 9.0
Success in ACFT 9.0 requires more than just practice it needs a smart, holistic fitness approach that includes strength, mobility, endurance, and recovery.
Top Training Tips:
- For Deadlift:
- Focus on form
- Use progressive overload training
- Strengthen your core and grip
- For Push-Ups:
- Do pause push-ups to simulate hand release
- Add triceps dips and shoulder presses
- For the 2-Mile Run:
- Alternate sprint intervals and long runs
- Work on your running mechanics using the Pose Method
- Recovery & Nutrition:
- Sleep at least 7 hours per night
- Fuel up with high-protein, low-fat meals
Don’t forget: Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) under FM 7-22 emphasizes mental, nutritional, and spiritual readiness not just physical.
Understanding Body Composition and Exemptions
The Army Body Composition Programme ties closely into ACFT 9.0:
- Soldiers who score 465+ may avoid tape tests
- Regular evaluations will still be required unless exempted
- Focus on functional fitness rather than just meeting appearance standards
This holistic approach ensures that fitness is about performance not just body image.
Important Dates and Rollout Timeline
Here’s a look at the official timeline as the Army transitions from ACFT to AFT (commonly called ACFT 9.0):
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| AFT Becomes Official Test of Record | June 1, 2025 |
| Combat MOS Standard Takes Effect | Jan 1, 2026 (Active Duty) |
| Combat MOS Standard for Reserve/Guard | June 1, 2026 |
| Old ACFT Scores Still Count Until | Sept 30, 2025 (tentative) |
Ensure your unit is signed up on the Army Fit website and regularly checking updates.
FAQs About ACFT 9.0
Is ACFT 9.0 official?
A: Not exactly. It’s a term soldiers use to describe the latest updates leading into the new AFT.
What’s the biggest change?
A: The Standing Power Throw is removed for many MOSs, and scoring standards are now different for combat vs non-combat roles.
Will old ACFT scores still be used?
A: Temporarily. They may be used for record purposes until the AFT rollout completes.
What documents govern the new test?
A: FM 7-22 and ATP 7-22.01 contain the latest official guidance.
Where can I get help training?
A: Check out your local H2F team or browse the Army Fit website for training plans and community support.
Conclusion
The ACFT 9.0, also known as the Army Fitness Test, marks a new era in the way soldiers train, test, and stay mission-ready. With changes to scoring, event structure, and training philosophy, it’s more than just a physical test it’s a reflection of the Army’s commitment to health, performance, and combat effectiveness.
Get ahead by training smart, staying informed, and using tools like the ACFT calculator to hit your goals.
Stay ready. Stay Army fit.