Understanding USMC Fitness Tests: PFT and CFT
The United States Marine Corps maintains two distinct fitness assessments: the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and the Combat Fitness Test (CFT). These tests evaluate different aspects of a Marine's physical capabilities and combat readiness.
Example Results
| Test Type | Pull-ups/Push-ups | Crunches | Run Time | Total Score | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFT | 20 Pull-ups | 100 Crunches | 18:00 | 290 | First Class |
| PFT | 18 Pull-ups | 90 Crunches | 19:00 | 280 | First Class |
| PFT | 15 Pull-ups | 80 Crunches | 20:30 | 250 | First Class |
| PFT | 12 Pull-ups | 70 Crunches | 22:00 | 230 | Second Class |
| PFT | 10 Pull-ups | 60 Crunches | 23:00 | 200 | Second Class |
| PFT | 8 Pull-ups | 50 Crunches | 24:00 | 180 | Third Class |
| PFT | 6 Pull-ups | 45 Crunches | 24:30 | 160 | Third Class |
| PFT | 5 Pull-ups | 40 Crunches | 25:00 | 150 | Third Class |
| PFT | 3 Pull-ups | 30 Crunches | 26:00 | 120 | Fail |
| PFT | 1 Pull-up | 20 Crunches | 28:00 | 100 | Fail |
| CFT | 100 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 2:45 MTC | 290 | First Class |
| CFT | 90 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 3:00 MTC | 280 | First Class |
| CFT | 80 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 3:15 MTC | 260 | First Class |
| CFT | 70 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 3:30 MTC | 240 | Second Class |
| CFT | 60 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 3:45 MTC | 220 | Second Class |
| CFT | 50 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 4:00 MTC | 200 | Second Class |
| CFT | 40 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 4:15 MTC | 180 | Third Class |
| CFT | 30 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 4:30 MTC | 160 | Third Class |
| CFT | 20 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 5:00 MTC | 140 | Third Class |
| CFT | 10 Ammo Can Lifts | -- | 5:30 MTC | 120 | Fail |
Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
Components of the PFT
- Pull-ups/Push-ups:
- Males: Pull-ups (dead hang)
- Females: Choice of pull-ups or push-ups
- Measures upper body strength and endurance
- Crunches or Plank:
- Maximum repetitions in 2 minutes (crunches)
- Maximum time held (plank)
- Evaluates core strength and endurance
- 3-Mile Run:
- Timed run on a measured course
- Tests cardiovascular endurance
- Must be completed in specified time limits
Combat Fitness Test (CFT)
Components of the CFT
- Movement to Contact (MTC):
- 880-yard sprint in combat boots
- Simulates battlefield movement
- Tests speed and endurance
- Ammunition Can Lift (ACL):
- Maximum repetitions in 2 minutes
- 30-pound ammunition can
- Measures upper body strength and endurance
- Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF):
- 300-yard combat obstacle course
- Includes various combat-related tasks
- Tests agility, coordination, and endurance
Importance of Fitness Tests
Fitness tests are crucial for assessing the physical readiness of Marines. They ensure that all personnel maintain the necessary physical capabilities to perform their duties effectively.
Scoring System
Both the PFT and CFT use a point system based on:
- Age groups (17-26, 27-39, 40-45, 46+)
- Gender-specific standards
- Maximum of 100 points per event
- Total score of 300 possible points
Classification Levels
- First Class: 235-300 points
- Second Class: 200-234 points
- Third Class: 120-199 points
- Fail: Below 120 points
Training Recommendations
To excel in both PFT and CFT, Marines should focus on:
- Progressive strength training
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Endurance running
- Functional fitness exercises
- Combat-specific movement patterns
Impact on Marine Corps Career
Performance on PFT and CFT affects:
- Promotion eligibility
- Special duty assignments
- Competitive selection processes
- Annual evaluation reports
- Overall military career progression