The US Army has announced it will implement a new “sex-neutral” physical test for female soldiers, replacing the existing Army Combat Fitness Test. The change comes after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the elimination of lower fitness standards for women in combat roles.
Under the new test, women in U.S. Army combat units will be required to meet the same physical standards as male soldiers. This means they will need to lift at least 140 pounds during the deadlift event, run a two-mile distance in 22 minutes, and complete other tasks that were previously easier for them.
The change is part of a broader effort to increase warfighting readiness and lethality. The new test consists of five events: dead lifts, push-ups, planks, a two-mile run, and a sled pull with kettlebells. However, it has dropped the standing power throw event, which was previously criticized by service members.
Women in combat roles will be scored on the “male” scale for 21 close combat occupations, likely reducing the number of women who meet the requirements. The new test will be phased in over time, with active duty soldiers in combat specialties required to meet the new standards starting in January 2026 and National Guard and Reserve troops by June.
The change has raised concerns about the impact on recruitment and retention of female soldiers in high-risk military jobs.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/22/us/new-army-fitness-test-women.html