Army rolls out new age and gender-neutral Combat Field Test for frontline troops

4 articles · Updated · Fox News · Apr 26

The CFT, implemented this month, requires soldiers to complete seven events in 30 minutes while wearing full combat gear, including running, push-ups, sprints, sandbag lifts, and movement drills.
The new test applies to combat specialties and is part of Secretary Pete Hegseth’s push for higher, role-specific standards to improve readiness and effectiveness after recent recruiting shortfalls.
Soldiers must complete the CFT annually, with no penalties during the first year as the Army phases in the standard, reflecting ongoing efforts to rebuild force strength and emphasize a 'warrior ethos.'

With soldiers now facing two annual fitness tests, how will daily training adapt?

Can the Army's new fitness test fix readiness without worsening its recruitment crisis?

What is the fate of veteran combat soldiers who fail the new physical standard?

Is the new 'warrior ethos' test more about a cultural shift than combat capability?

Does the sandbag and water can test truly mirror modern battlefield demands?