5 Army Push Up Requirements You Need To Know

As a soldier in the US Army, maintaining physical fitness is crucial for performing your duties effectively and staying safe on the battlefield. One of the key components of the Army's physical fitness test is the push-up, which measures a soldier's upper body strength and endurance. In this article, we'll break down the 5 Army push-up requirements you need to know to ensure you're meeting the standards.

What is the Army Physical Fitness Test?

Before we dive into the push-up requirements, let's quickly discuss the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The APFT is a standardized test that assesses a soldier's physical fitness and ability to perform their duties. The test consists of three events: push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run.

Why are Push-ups Important in the Army?

Push-ups are an essential exercise in the Army because they work multiple muscle groups simultaneously, including the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. These muscles are critical for performing various tasks, such as lifting, carrying, and moving equipment, as well as maintaining proper posture and balance.

The 5 Army Push-up Requirements

To pass the APFT, soldiers must meet the minimum push-up requirements, which vary depending on age and sex. Here are the 5 Army push-up requirements you need to know:

1. Proper Form

To count as a valid push-up, soldiers must maintain proper form throughout the entire exercise. This includes:

• Starting in a plank position with hands shoulder-width apart and fingers facing forward
• Lowering the body until the chest nearly touches the ground
• Pushing back up to the starting position
• Keeping the core engaged and the body in a straight line from head to heels

2. Minimum Repetitions

Soldiers must complete a minimum number of push-ups within the allotted time. For men, the minimum is:

• 30 push-ups for soldiers aged 17-21
• 25 push-ups for soldiers aged 22-26
• 20 push-ups for soldiers aged 27-31
• 15 push-ups for soldiers aged 32-36
• 10 push-ups for soldiers aged 37 and above

For women, the minimum is:

• 19 push-ups for soldiers aged 17-21
• 15 push-ups for soldiers aged 22-26
• 11 push-ups for soldiers aged 27-31
• 7 push-ups for soldiers aged 32-36
• 4 push-ups for soldiers aged 37 and above

3. Time Limit

Soldiers have 1 minute to complete as many push-ups as possible.

4. Cadence

Soldiers must maintain a consistent cadence, or pace, throughout the exercise. The recommended cadence is 2-3 push-ups per second.

5. Inspectors' Guidance

During the APFT, inspectors will provide guidance and feedback to soldiers on their form and technique. Soldiers must listen to and follow the inspectors' instructions to ensure they are meeting the requirements.

Tips for Meeting the Army Push-up Requirements

If you're struggling to meet the push-up requirements, here are some tips to help you improve:

• Start with shorter sets and gradually increase the number of push-ups as you build endurance
• Focus on maintaining proper form and technique throughout the exercise
• Incorporate push-ups into your daily workout routine to build strength and endurance
• Practice with a partner or instructor to get feedback on your form and technique

Conclusion

Meeting the Army push-up requirements is crucial for passing the APFT and maintaining physical fitness. By following the proper form, minimum repetitions, time limit, cadence, and inspectors' guidance, soldiers can ensure they are meeting the standards. Remember to practice regularly and focus on building strength and endurance to improve your overall physical fitness.

Gallery of Army Push-up Requirements

Army Push-up Requirements Image Gallery

FAQs

What is the minimum number of push-ups required for the APFT?

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The minimum number of push-ups required for the APFT varies depending on age and sex. For men, the minimum is 30 push-ups for soldiers aged 17-21, and for women, the minimum is 19 push-ups for soldiers aged 17-21.

How do I improve my push-up form and technique?

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To improve your push-up form and technique, focus on maintaining a consistent cadence and engaging your core throughout the exercise. Practice with a partner or instructor to get feedback on your form and technique.

Can I still pass the APFT if I don't meet the minimum push-up requirements?

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No, meeting the minimum push-up requirements is essential for passing the APFT. If you don't meet the minimum requirements, you will not pass the test.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on the Army push-up requirements. Remember to practice regularly and focus on building strength and endurance to improve your overall physical fitness.