The Air Force PT Test is a physical fitness test used by the United States Air Force to assess the fitness level of its members. This test ensures airmen can maintain their physical readiness and performance. It tests an individual’s aerobic capacity, muscular strength, and endurance.
The United States Air Force (USAF) follows the standard the Department of Defense sets for physical fitness tests for all service branches. This includes acft army standards and the navy pt test.
The air force pt test & standards consist of three components or exercises:
What are the air force pt events?
- 1.5-mile run
- Traditional Push-ups
- Traditional Sit-ups
Air Force Pt alternate events:
- High Aerobic Multi-shuttle Run (20M HAMR)
- Hand Release Push-ups
- Cross-Leg Reverse Crunch Plank
Details:
- 1.5-mile run: This event measures the airman’s cardiovascular endurance. Airmen are required to complete the 1.5 miles within the shortest time possible.
- Traditional Push-ups: This afpt event measures the airman’s upper body strength and endurance. Airmen must do as many push-ups as possible within a specified time limit.
- Traditional Sit-ups: This apft event measures the airmen’s core strength and endurance. The airmen must do as many sit-ups as possible within the specified time limit.
The Air Force physical fitness test has a variety of alternate events for members who cannot perform the traditional afpt test due to medical reasons or other circumstances.
Below are the three exercises:
- High Aerobic Multi-shuttle Run (20M HAMR): This event measures the participant’s cardiovascular endurance and agility. It involves running back and forth between two lines 20 meters apart, touching the line with one foot before changing direction. The test continues for a set period, usually six to ten minutes, with the participant aiming to cover as much distance as possible.
- Hand Release Push-ups: This event tests upper body strength and muscular endurance. Participants start in the push-up position with their hands shoulder-width apart and their elbows fully extended. They lower their body until their chest touches the ground, then lift their hands off before pushing themselves back up to the starting position. The participant aims to complete as many repetitions as possible within a set time limit.
- Cross-Leg Reverse Crunch Plank: This event measures core strength and endurance. Participants start in a plank position with their forearms on the ground, elbows aligned below their shoulders, and legs extended behind them. They then cross one ankle over the opposite knee and pull that knee towards their chest, contracting their core muscles. The participant holds the position for as long as possible before switching sides. The goal is to hold the plank position for a set time, usually one to three minutes.