Air Force ROTC Fitness Standards

“Before I joined AFROTC, I thought that I wouldn’t last long in the program because I was out of shape. But the people here at the detachment motivated me to get in shape. The only person who ever doubted that I would pass the PFT was me.”
    – Karen Cole, Chemistry and English major, Cornell University

The PFT is composed of three events in the following order:

1. Push-ups
2. Crunches
3. 1.5-mile run

All events must be completed. There is a short rest period between each event. There is a minimum score of 75 points. Below is a table of maximum scores in each area.

> How to pass the PFT. (You should consult with a physician before starting any exercise program.)

• Take the entire test early in order to get a baseline for improvement.
• Develop a plan to improve your physical fitness.
  • The plan should include exercises to improve each event score.
  • Emphasize the events you struggle with to improve overall score.
  • Make the plan a part of your lifestyle.
  • If possible, find a friend (or friends) to work out with on a regular basis.
  • Stay positive and stay with it.
• Set short-term and long-term goals for yourself.
  • Set six-week goals, semester goals and Field-Training Board goals for improving individual event scores and the overall score.
  • Ask your instructor for the average scores for those programs for which you want to be selected.

> Work the PFT exercises and running into your overall lifestyle. Use small amounts of time to improve overall fitness.

• Break periods of study by performing individual exercises. (Read a chapter or finish an assignment and do some push-ups.)
• Clear the mind after a long study session by going for a run.
• You don’t need to be at a gym or fitness center to improve on your PFT. Be creative.
• Work on sit-ups and push-ups in your room.

Just remember that you don’t need to be an athlete to pass the PFT. You just need to get in and stay in “PFT” shape.