New Air Force PT standards in effect

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jason Burton
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  The Air Force physical fitness standards have recently changed to a pass or fail system.

The marginal category, previously from 70-74.99, no longer exists. Air Force members will now receive a passing score if they receive a 75 or higher on their physical assessment test, and a failing score if they receive a 74.99 or below, said Capt. Nicole Wilson, 39th Medical Group Health Promotion manager at the Health and Wellness Center.

"The new standards are not a huge change in the Air Force position on fitness, the minimum passing score is unchanged for a good or excellent rating," said Col. Philip McDaniel, 39th Air Base Wing commander. "The new standard has only eliminated a small portion of the population who did not meet the standard, but were close. Now you either meet the standard or do not, no middle ground."

There were also other changes, such as the addition of a 3-mile walk as an alternate submaxial aerobic component for members medically exempted for both the 1.5 mile run and cycle erogometry, Captain Wilson said.

This alternate test is normally determined by the exercise physiologist, however, since Incirlik does not have an exercise physiologist, this will be determined by the physical therapist and the medical provider, she added.

"These changes will raise the bar for the lower performers while also standardizing the medical profile approvals and giving members an additional option to test in the cardio category," said Chief Master Sgt. Jeffery Antwine, 39th Air Base Wing command chief. "The new standards and changes show that the Air force is not only serious about ensuring our members are fit, but also ensuring that we have a common standard for profiles and a safe way to evaluate those members on profiles."

These new changes also coincide with the new enlisted and officer performance reports, which now include a fitness category.

"Members that fail will automatically receive a referral EPR," said Chief Antwine. "This report significantly restricts the member's options concerning re-enlistments, promotions and reassignments."

Airmen that do not receive a passing score will still have to attend the Health Living Program, formerly the Healthy Living Workshop. This program consists of three educational components including behavioral change, nutrition and exercise.
The evolution to a pass or fail system and the addition of this information annotated on the EPR/OPR reports emphasizes the importance of being in shape to meet the demands of our expeditionary culture, said Colonel McDaniel.

"As anyone who has deployed into harms way can tell you, your fitness may very well be critical to your survival downrange," Colonel McDaniel added.

"Everyone in our Air Force can meet the standards if they apply themselves and work hard," the Colonel said. "There is plenty of support available from your fellow Airmen and the fitness center staff as well as the HAWC to get you on the right path. You just have to be determined to put the energy required into a program to get yourself on track."