7 Essential Physical Requirements For Army Basic Training

Enlisting in the army is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. One of the most challenging aspects of joining the army is completing Basic Training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT). To succeed in BCT, recruits must meet specific physical requirements that test their endurance, strength, and agility. In this article, we will discuss the 7 essential physical requirements for Army Basic Training.

Physical Requirements for Army Basic Training

Before starting BCT, recruits must meet the Army's physical fitness standards. These standards are designed to ensure that recruits have the physical ability to perform their duties safely and effectively. The 7 essential physical requirements for Army Basic Training are:

1. Push-Ups

Push-ups are a fundamental exercise that tests upper body strength and endurance. To pass the push-up test, recruits must perform a minimum of 30 push-ups in one minute. The push-up test is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits start in a plank position with their hands shoulder-width apart and their feet hip-width apart.
• Recruits lower their body until their chest almost touches the ground.
• Recruits then push back up to the starting position.

2. Sit-Ups

Sit-ups are another essential exercise that tests core strength and endurance. To pass the sit-up test, recruits must perform a minimum of 30 sit-ups in one minute. The sit-up test is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits start in a seated position with their feet flat on the ground and their hands behind their head.
• Recruits lift their torso off the ground, keeping their lower back pressed into the ground.
• Recruits then lower their torso back down to the starting position.

3. 2-Mile Run

The 2-mile run is a cardio-intensive exercise that tests endurance and stamina. To pass the 2-mile run test, recruits must complete the course in under 14 minutes. The 2-mile run is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits start at the beginning of the course and run 2 miles at their own pace.
• Recruits must complete the course in under 14 minutes to pass.

4. Body Fat Percentage

The Army has strict body fat percentage requirements to ensure that recruits are healthy and fit for duty. To pass the body fat percentage test, recruits must meet the following standards:

• Men: 20-30% body fat
• Women: 24-36% body fat

Recruits who exceed the body fat percentage standards may be subject to remedial fitness training or administrative action.

5. Vertical Jump

The vertical jump test measures a recruit's power and explosiveness. To pass the vertical jump test, recruits must jump a minimum of 20 inches. The vertical jump test is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits stand with their feet shoulder-width apart and their hands by their sides.
• Recruits then jump up as high as possible, landing softly on the balls of their feet.

6. 1-Mile Swim

The 1-mile swim test measures a recruit's swimming ability and endurance. To pass the 1-mile swim test, recruits must complete the course in under 30 minutes. The 1-mile swim is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits start at the beginning of the course and swim 1 mile at their own pace.
• Recruits must complete the course in under 30 minutes to pass.

7. Obstacle Course

The obstacle course test measures a recruit's agility, balance, and coordination. To pass the obstacle course test, recruits must complete the course in under 5 minutes. The obstacle course is administered in the following manner:

• Recruits start at the beginning of the course and navigate through a series of obstacles, including tires, cones, and walls.
• Recruits must complete the course in under 5 minutes to pass.

Gallery of Army Basic Training Physical Requirements

Army Basic Training Physical Requirements Image Gallery

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, meeting the physical requirements for Army Basic Training is essential for recruits who want to succeed in BCT. The 7 essential physical requirements for Army Basic Training are push-ups, sit-ups, 2-mile run, body fat percentage, vertical jump, 1-mile swim, and obstacle course. By understanding these requirements and preparing accordingly, recruits can ensure that they are physically fit and ready for the challenges of BCT.