Combat Fitness Test Standards and Injury Compensation

Military combat physical fitness readiness tests can be strenuous, and it is not uncommon to get seriously injured while performing one of these tests. At the Law Office of William Bruzzo, we sadly get many inquiries from military service members who were injured during a combat fitness test. These tests are physically grueling and often put participants at risk of injury. If you have suffered an injury during a combat fitness test, know your rights and options for financial compensation. Let us walk you through the standards for combat fitness tests from various branches of the military and how you may be entitled to compensation. If you have been injured, please speak to an Orange County military injury lawyer and learn your rights and options.

Army Combat Fitness Test

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a series of fitness feats designed to assess the physical readiness of soldiers for combat. It includes various assessments of different fitness components, such as muscular strength, power, endurance, and aerobic capacity. The elements of the ACFT are:

• Standing Power Throw (SPT): The SPT assesses power, balance, coordination, and flexibility. It requires participants to throw a 10-pound medicine ball as far as possible.
• Plank (PLK): The PLK event assesses core strength and balance. Participants must hold the plank position for a specific duration.
• Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC): The SDC event assesses muscular endurance, strength, power, and anaerobic capacity. It includes a series of sprints, drags, carries, and lateral movements.
• 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL): This event assesses muscular strength and helps prevent injuries by strengthening the lower back and legs.
• Two-Mile Run (2MR): The 2MR event assesses aerobic endurance for prolonged work and quicker recovery. Participants must complete a two-mile run within a set time.
• Hand Release Push-Up/Arm Extension (HRP): The HRP event assesses muscular endurance and is important for upper body strength. Participants must perform push-ups with proper form and arm extension.

Air Force Tactical Fitness Test

The Air Force Tactical Fitness Test is designed to assess the fitness levels of Air Force personnel. It includes events that measure strength, endurance, and mobility. While it may not be identical to the Army Combat Fitness Test, there are similarities in the focus on physical fitness and combat readiness.

Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test

The Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test (CFT) is a series of events that assess the combat readiness of marines. It includes an 880-yard run, an ammunition can lift, and a maneuver-under-fire event. The CFT aims to ensure marines are physically prepared for the rigors of frontline combat.

Navy Physical Readiness Test

The Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) assesses the physical fitness of Navy service members. It includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. While the Navy PRT may not have the same focus on combat readiness as the Army Combat Fitness Test, it is still important for Navy service members to maintain a certain level of physical fitness.

Preventing Injuries

Always take appropriate measures to prevent injuries during these tests. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of injuries during combat fitness tests:

• Proper Warm-up: Always warm up before participating in any physical activity. A dynamic warm-up routine can help prepare your body for the demands of the test.
• Proper Technique: Make sure you understand and use the correct techniques for each test. Doing the exercises wrong can increase the risk of injuries.
• Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your training to allow your body to adapt and reduce the risk of overuse complications.
• Cross-training: Incorporate a variety of exercises into your training routine to develop a well-rounded level of fitness and prevent overuse injuries.
• Rest and Recovery: Allow for proper rest and recovery between training sessions to give your body time to repair and build strength.
• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort you experience during training or testing. If you experience pain, address it and get medical attention, if necessary.

How Injuries Get Compensated in the Military

If you have been injured during a combat fitness test in the military, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries. The military has a system in place to address injuries and provide compensation to service members who have been injured during the performance of their duties. The compensation process for military injuries varies depending on the circumstances and the branch. If you reach out to an Orange County military injury attorney, you can learn more about your options for compensation and how much money you might expect for an injury like yours.

What Common Personal Injuries Are Worth

Determining the worth of personal injuries is a complex process depending on various factors like the severity of the injury, the impact on daily life, and the long-term consequences. As an Orange County military injury lawyer, here are some common personal injuries that we see occuring during combat fitness tests:

• Back Injuries: Injuries to the back can range from strains to herniated discs, resulting in chronic pain and limited mobility.
• Sprains and Strains: These injuries are common in high-impact activities and can range from mild to severe, affecting mobility and physical performance.
• Torn Ligaments: Ligament tears can result in long-term pain, instability, and restricted movement.
• Knee Injuries: Knee injuries, such as ACL tears, can be debilitating and may require surgery and extensive physical therapy.
• Fractures: Broken bones can have significant impacts on a person’s ability to perform physically demanding tasks.

Again, the value of individual injuries depends on factors like if the injury meets the military’s strict standards for being sued, your medical expenses, any lost wages, pain and suffering, and the long-term effects of the injury. Remember that each case is unique, and your Orange County military injury lawyer can advise you as to the compensation you could receive, more or less.

Need an Orange County Military Injury Attorney?

The Law Office of William Bruzzo is eager to assist if you have been injured during a combat fitness test. Our legal team supports military service members and believes in demanding all the legal rights you can be afforded. Don’t face the challenges of a military injury alone—let us fight in the trenches with you. Talk to our Orange County military injury lawyer by contacting our office now.