The Army is implementing new gender-neutral fitness test standards for service members in combat roles. Beginning June 1, both men and women in 21 combat specialty positions will have to lift the same weights, finish events in the same time, and ultimately achieve the same minimum scores to pass.
Previously, passing scores were gender-specific, so women could lift lighter weights and finish with slower times, but no more. The men’s scale is the new minimum for everyone.
Download the SAN app today to stay up-to-date with Unbiased. Straight Facts™.
Point phone camera here
The question is: Will this prevent women from qualifying for combat positions?
SAN compared the new standards to the average scores of previous years to find out. We’re using the average scores for all Army and National Guard positions, so these averages include those in noncombat roles who have lower standards. We’re also using a score chart for 17 to 21-year-olds. The standards will remain age-specific.
To pass, service members need a minimum 60 points for each event. These average scores were compiled by Military.com.
Here’s how the womens’ average score compares:
Deadlift:
- Average weight lifted: 155 pounds
- Points on women’s scale: 83
- Points on men’s scale: 66
- Verdict: Pass
Plank:
- Average time held: 2:22
- Points on women’s scale: 76
- Points on men’s scale: 76
- Verdict: Pass
2-mile run:
- Average finish time: 20:40
- Points on women’s scale: 70
- Points on men’s scale: 62
- Verdict: Pass
The new minimum time is 22:00, so at the current average time, women have 1:20 to spare.
Sprint, drag, carry:
- Average finish time: 2:25
- Points on women’s scale: 82
- Points on men’s scale: 60
- Verdict: Pass
The new standard for women in combat is 2:28
Hand release pushup:
- Average: 29 in 2 minutes
- Points on women’s scale: 83
- Points on men’s scale: 71
- Verdict: Pass
Women in the Army are already above and beyond the new standards. And again, those averages were for all female service members, not combat members who get more time to train, as well as job-specific training programs.
Based on that, it doesn’t appear that anyone who wants to serve in a combat role will be unable to qualify.
