Discover the 7 essential physical requirements for Army enlistment. Learn about the rigorous fitness standards, body fat percentage, and medical prerequisites needed to qualify. From push-ups to sit-ups, get the inside scoop on what it takes to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and start your military career.
The United States Army is one of the most prestigious and respected branches of the military, with a long history of defending the country and its interests. To be eligible to serve in the Army, individuals must meet certain physical requirements that ensure they are capable of performing the demands of military service. In this article, we will explore the 7 essential physical requirements for Army enlistment, and what it takes to meet these standards.
Why Physical Requirements Matter
The Army's physical requirements are in place to ensure that soldiers are capable of performing the physical demands of military service. These demands include everything from carrying heavy equipment and marching long distances to engaging in combat and responding to emergencies. By setting high physical standards, the Army can ensure that its soldiers are prepared to face the challenges of military life and perform their duties safely and effectively.
The 7 Essential Physical Requirements
To be eligible for Army enlistment, individuals must meet the following 7 essential physical requirements:
1. Body Mass Index (BMI)
The Army uses BMI to measure an individual's body fat percentage. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must have a BMI between 19 and 27, depending on their age and sex. This means that individuals who are severely underweight or overweight may not be eligible for enlistment.
Army BMI Chart
| Age | Male BMI | Female BMI |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 19-25 | 19-24 |
| 21-27 | 19-26 | 19-25 |
| 28-39 | 19-27 | 19-26 |
| 40+ | 19-25 | 19-24 |
2. Waist Circumference
In addition to BMI, the Army also measures waist circumference to ensure that individuals have a healthy body composition. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must have a waist circumference of 40 inches or less for men and 35 inches or less for women.
3. Push-Ups
The Army requires individuals to perform a minimum number of push-ups to demonstrate their upper body strength. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must be able to perform at least 30 push-ups in one minute.
Army Push-Up Standards
| Age | Male Push-Ups | Female Push-Ups |
|---|---|---|
| 17-21 | 30-40 | 19-29 |
| 22-26 | 30-39 | 19-28 |
| 27-31 | 29-38 | 18-27 |
| 32-36 | 28-37 | 17-26 |
| 37-41 | 27-36 | 16-25 |
| 42+ | 26-35 | 15-24 |
4. Sit-Ups
In addition to push-ups, the Army also requires individuals to perform a minimum number of sit-ups to demonstrate their core strength. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must be able to perform at least 30 sit-ups in one minute.
Army Sit-Up Standards
| Age | Male Sit-Ups | Female Sit-Ups |
|---|---|---|
| 17-21 | 30-40 | 25-35 |
| 22-26 | 30-39 | 24-34 |
| 27-31 | 29-38 | 23-33 |
| 32-36 | 28-37 | 22-32 |
| 37-41 | 27-36 | 21-31 |
| 42+ | 26-35 | 20-30 |
5. 2-Mile Run
The Army requires individuals to complete a 2-mile run to demonstrate their cardiovascular endurance. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must be able to complete the run in 14 minutes or less.
Army 2-Mile Run Standards
| Age | Male 2-Mile Run | Female 2-Mile Run |
|---|---|---|
| 17-21 | 13:30-14:30 | 15:30-16:30 |
| 22-26 | 13:30-14:30 | 15:30-16:30 |
| 27-31 | 14:00-15:00 | 16:00-17:00 |
| 32-36 | 14:30-15:30 | 16:30-17:30 |
| 37-41 | 15:00-16:00 | 17:00-18:00 |
| 42+ | 15:30-16:30 | 17:30-18:30 |
6. Vision
The Army requires individuals to have good vision to perform their duties safely and effectively. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must have a visual acuity of 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses.
7. Hearing
The Army also requires individuals to have good hearing to perform their duties safely and effectively. To be eligible for enlistment, individuals must be able to hear sounds at a certain decibel level, with or without hearing aids.
Gallery of Army Physical Requirements
Army Physical Requirements Image Gallery
Final Thoughts
Meeting the Army's physical requirements is essential for individuals who want to serve in the military. By understanding what it takes to meet these standards, individuals can prepare themselves for the demands of military service and ensure that they are eligible for enlistment. Whether you're looking to join the Army or simply want to improve your physical fitness, we hope this article has provided you with the information and motivation you need to succeed.