Army Pull Up Requirements

The Army pull-up requirements are a critical component of the Army's Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which is used to assess a soldier's overall physical fitness and readiness for combat. The APFT consists of three events: push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run, with the pull-up being a key aspect of the test. However, it's worth noting that in 2020, the Army introduced the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), which replaced the APFT for most soldiers. The ACFT includes a series of events designed to better simulate the physical demands of combat, including the deadlift, standing power throw, and a 2-mile run, among others.
Despite the introduction of the ACFT, the pull-up remains an important aspect of Army physical fitness training, and soldiers are still required to perform a minimum number of pull-ups to pass the test. The exact number of pull-ups required varies depending on the soldier's age and gender, with younger soldiers and those in certain Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) being required to perform more pull-ups than older soldiers or those in other MOS. For example, a male soldier under the age of 30 is required to perform at least 6 pull-ups to pass the test, while a female soldier in the same age group is required to perform at least 1 pull-up.
Key Points
- The Army pull-up requirements vary depending on the soldier's age and gender.
- The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) has replaced the APFT for most soldiers, but pull-ups are still an important aspect of Army physical fitness training.
- Soldiers are required to perform a minimum number of pull-ups to pass the test, with the exact number varying depending on age and gender.
- Younger soldiers and those in certain Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) are required to perform more pull-ups than older soldiers or those in other MOS.
- Male soldiers under the age of 30 are required to perform at least 6 pull-ups to pass the test, while female soldiers in the same age group are required to perform at least 1 pull-up.
Army Pull-Up Requirements by Age and Gender

The Army pull-up requirements vary depending on the soldier’s age and gender, with the following being the minimum requirements for each age group:
Age Group | Male Soldiers | Female Soldiers |
---|---|---|
17-20 years old | 6 pull-ups | 1 pull-up |
21-27 years old | 5 pull-ups | 1 pull-up |
28-39 years old | 4 pull-ups | 0 pull-ups (alternative event) |
40-49 years old | 3 pull-ups | 0 pull-ups (alternative event) |
50 and over | 2 pull-ups | 0 pull-ups (alternative event) |

Preparing for the Army Pull-Up Test
To prepare for the Army pull-up test, soldiers should focus on building their upper body strength, particularly in the latissimus dorsi, biceps, and forearm muscles. A well-structured workout routine that includes exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, and rows can help improve overall upper body strength and endurance. Additionally, soldiers should focus on proper form and technique when performing pull-ups, as this can help reduce the risk of injury and improve overall performance.
Conclusion

In conclusion, the Army pull-up requirements are an important aspect of Army physical fitness training, and soldiers should focus on building their upper body strength and endurance to meet the minimum requirements for their age and gender. By understanding the requirements and preparing properly, soldiers can improve their overall physical fitness and readiness for combat, and set themselves up for success in their military careers.
What is the minimum number of pull-ups required for a male soldier under the age of 30?
+The minimum number of pull-ups required for a male soldier under the age of 30 is 6 pull-ups.
Can female soldiers be required to perform pull-ups as part of the Army physical fitness test?
+Yes, female soldiers may be required to perform pull-ups as part of the Army physical fitness test, although the minimum requirements are lower than for male soldiers. In some cases, female soldiers may be allowed to perform an alternative event, such as a flexed-arm hang.
How can soldiers prepare for the Army pull-up test?
+Soldiers can prepare for the Army pull-up test by focusing on building their upper body strength, particularly in the latissimus dorsi, biceps, and forearm muscles. A well-structured workout routine that includes exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, and rows can help improve overall upper body strength and endurance.