The Army National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Army, and its physical requirements are designed to ensure that soldiers are capable of performing their duties safely and effectively. To join the Army National Guard, individuals must meet certain physical standards, which include passing the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and meeting the body fat percentage requirements. The APFT is a three-event test that measures a soldier's endurance, strength, and agility, and it includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run.
Physical Fitness Test Requirements
The APFT is a critical component of the Army National Guard’s physical requirements, and it is used to assess a soldier’s overall fitness level. The test is scored based on the number of push-ups and sit-ups completed, as well as the time it takes to complete the 2-mile run. The minimum scores required to pass the APFT vary depending on age and gender, but the maximum scores are as follows: 100 points for push-ups, 100 points for sit-ups, and 100 points for the 2-mile run. To achieve a perfect score, a soldier must complete at least 71 push-ups in 2 minutes, 80 sit-ups in 2 minutes, and run 2 miles in 13 minutes or less.
Body Fat Percentage Requirements
In addition to passing the APFT, Army National Guard soldiers must also meet the body fat percentage requirements. The maximum body fat percentage for male soldiers is 24%, while the maximum for female soldiers is 36%. Body fat percentage is measured using a technique called hydrostatic weighing, which involves weighing a person underwater to determine their body density. The body fat percentage requirements are in place to ensure that soldiers are at a healthy weight and are able to perform their duties safely and effectively.
| Age Group | Male Push-ups | Male Sit-ups | Male 2-Mile Run | Female Push-ups | Female Sit-ups | Female 2-Mile Run |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 42-53 | 49-59 | 15:36-18:24 | 19-29 | 39-49 | 18:36-21:42 |
| 21-27 | 40-52 | 47-58 | 15:48-18:36 | 17-28 | 36-47 | 19:00-22:06 |
| 28-39 | 36-49 | 42-55 | 16:36-19:24 | 14-26 | 32-44 | 20:00-23:30 |
| 40-46 | 30-45 | 36-52 | 17:24-20:12 | 11-24 | 28-42 | 21:00-25:00 |
| 47 and older | 25-41 | 30-49 | 18:12-21:00 | 9-22 | 24-40 | 22:00-26:30 |
Training and Preparation
To prepare for the APFT, Army National Guard soldiers can engage in a variety of physical training activities, such as running, weightlifting, and bodyweight exercises. It’s also essential to develop a healthy diet and get enough sleep to ensure that the body is able to recover from physical activity. Soldiers can also work with their unit’s fitness trainer to develop a personalized training plan that meets their needs and goals.
Common Injuries and Prevention
Army National Guard soldiers who engage in physical training are at risk for a variety of injuries, including muscle strains, tendinitis, and stress fractures. To prevent injuries, soldiers should warm up before engaging in physical activity, stretch regularly, and listen to their body and take regular breaks. Soldiers should also wear proper gear, such as running shoes and athletic clothing, to reduce the risk of injury.
- Warm up before engaging in physical activity
- Stretch regularly to improve flexibility
- Listen to your body and take regular breaks
- Wear proper gear to reduce the risk of injury
What is the minimum score required to pass the APFT?
+The minimum score required to pass the APFT varies depending on age and gender, but the maximum scores are as follows: 100 points for push-ups, 100 points for sit-ups, and 100 points for the 2-mile run.
How often is the APFT administered?
+The APFT is typically administered twice a year, but the frequency may vary depending on the unit and the soldier's individual needs.
Can I retake the APFT if I fail?
+Yes, soldiers who fail the APFT can retake the test, but they must wait a minimum of 30 days before retesting.
In conclusion, the Army National Guard’s physical requirements are in place to ensure that soldiers are capable of performing their duties safely and effectively. By meeting the physical fitness test requirements and body fat percentage requirements, soldiers can ensure that they are able to perform their duties to the best of their ability. It’s essential for soldiers to maintain a high level of physical fitness, as it is critical to their ability to perform their duties safely and effectively.
