What Is a Good ACFT Score?
According to the standards of U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training, a good ACFT score is typically between 420 and 480 points out of 600. This score shows that a soldier is physically fit, balanced across all six test events, and above the basic Army standards. The minimum passing score for all soldiers is 360 points, with at least 60 points in each event. Achieving a 540 or higher reflects elite physical performance.
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) measures total-body strength, endurance, and mobility. It’s designed to assess how well soldiers can meet the physical challenges of modern combat and daily military duties.
ACFT Scoring Overview
| Level | Score Range | Description |
| Outstanding | 540 – 600 | Excellent fitness and readiness |
| Above Average | 480 – 539 | Exceeds most Army expectations |
| Good | 420 – 479 | Strong, balanced performance |
| Average | 360 – 419 | Meets basic Army standards |
| Needs Improvement | Below 360 | Fails to meet minimum requirements |
For most soldiers, maintaining a score of 420 or higher demonstrates solid physical capability and commitment.
Performance Events
The ACFT consists of six performance events that test different aspects of strength, endurance, and agility.
| Event | Name | Main Focus |
| 1 | 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL) | Lower-body and core strength |
| 2 | Standing Power Throw (SPT) | Explosive power |
| 3 | Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP) | Upper-body endurance |
| 4 | Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) | Speed and agility |
| 5 | Plank (PLK) | Core stability |
| 6 | Two-Mile Run (2MR) | Aerobic endurance |
Each event is scored from 0 to 100 points, for a total possible 600 points.
Example of a Good ACFT Score
| Event | Points | Typical Performance |
| Deadlift | 80 | 315 lbs for 3 reps |
| Power Throw | 70 | 10.5 meters |
| Push-Ups | 75 | 45 reps |
| Sprint-Drag-Carry | 80 | 1 min 40 sec |
| Plank | 70 | 2 min 30 sec |
| Two-Mile Run | 75 | 15 min 30 sec |
| Total | 450 Points | Good Category |
A soldier with this score demonstrates strong overall conditioning and readiness across all events.
What Defines a Good Score
Several factors affect what counts as a “good” ACFT score:
- Unit Expectations: Combat or airborne units often expect scores above 480.
- Military Role: Jobs requiring heavy lifting or endurance benefit from higher marks.
- Consistency: Even performance across all six events is better than excelling in one and failing another.
- Career Goals: Higher scores improve promotion opportunities and selection for specialized schools.
How to Train for a Good ACFT Score
A consistent training plan that targets strength, endurance, and mobility is essential for improving your overall performance. Before you start, use an ACFT Calculator to understand where you currently stand and how many points you need to reach your goal score. Tracking your progress regularly keeps your training focused and realistic.
| Focus Area | Example Exercises | Frequency |
| Strength | Deadlifts, squats, lunges | 2–3 times weekly |
| Power | Medicine ball throws, jump squats | 1–2 times weekly |
| Endurance | Intervals, tempo runs | 2 times weekly |
| Core | Planks, leg raises, side holds | 3 times weekly |
| Agility | Shuttle runs, sled drags | 2 times weekly |
| Recovery | Stretching, light cardio | Daily (10–15 mins) |
Progress gradually, maintain proper form, and prioritize recovery to prevent injury.
Tips for Test Day
- Rest well the night before.
- Eat a light meal with carbohydrates and protein.
- Warm up using dynamic stretches.
- Focus on breathing and pacing during the run.
- Keep transitions smooth during the Sprint-Drag-Carry.
Small improvements in pacing and form can raise your total score significantly.
Why a Good Score Matters
A strong ACFT score isn’t just about numbers. It reflects a soldier’s discipline, physical readiness, and mental resilience. Higher scores:
- Strengthen promotion and career advancement potential.
- Reflect well on unit performance metrics.
- Reduce injury risk during training and deployment.
- Build personal confidence and team trust.
Maintaining a good score ensures a soldier is always ready for the demands of service.
Final Thoughts
A good ACFT score shows balance, readiness, and consistent training. Soldiers who train steadily, master each event, and maintain overall fitness perform better both in tests and real missions.
The ACFT is not only a fitness test, it represents how prepared a soldier is to meet the physical and mental challenges of Army life. Reaching a good score means being mission-ready and fit for duty every day.