Marine Corps Fitness
Fitness is a way of life for United States Marines. But in the last 20 years, a lot has changed.
The old Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test — max set of pull-ups, max crunches in 2-minutes, and a 3-mile run — is now just the base standard. There is now a Combat Fitness Test that incorporates the battle-tested fitness routines developed in the Fleet Marine Force over nearly 20 years of sustained combat.
There are also dedicated fitness trainers in each unit with an increased focus on functional and tactical fitness, and more information available about recovery, nutrition, and optimization than ever before.
In short — there’s no better time to be a United States Marine!
Be technically and tactically proficient.
All About Marine Corps Fitness
The Marine Corps Initial Strength Test, or IST, is given to new recruits to see if they are fit enough to begin training. View the minimum standards for males and females, and the enhanced standards for combat Military Occupational Specialties.
The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test, or PFT, is given twice a year to active duty Marines. It is the base standard of fitness for which a Marine is measured and also counts toward promotions.
The Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test, or CFT, is a functional fitness test designed with combat effectiveness in mind. It is a challenging course that tests strength, stamina, and mental fortitude.
Recent Marine Corps Fitness Articles
How to Do More Pull Ups: The Ultimate Guide
One of the subjects that frequently comes up when speaking to future Marines is, “how to do more pull ups?” Well, the answer is simple. Do more pull ups. But you’ve got to be smart about it. You’ve got to use the right technique and
Marine Obstacle Course Crushed by OCS Instructor
Watch this Marine Instructor from Officer Candidate’s School in Quantico, Virgina, crush the Marine Corps Obstacle Course.
Marine Corps Obstacle Course | Conquer the Challenge
One of the first challenging events that recruits face in boot camp is the Marine Corps Obstacle Course, also called the O-Course, or the Tarzan Course. It looks difficult, at first, but there’s a technique to it. Your drill instructors will show you how to
Marine Corps Strength Training | Fundamentals of Strength
When it comes to Marine Corps Strength Training, I never knew where to start. I wanted to be strong enough for boot camp but didn’t have the resources. There are many recruits who have considerable weight training experience from being on a high school football
What is the Marine Corps Initial Strength Test?
The Marine Corps Initial Strength Test, or IST, is given to new recruits to ensure they are ready to begin training. Recruiters administer the test prior to enlistment, and recruits will take the test again during their first week of boot camp. The Marine Corps IST consists of pull ups, crunches, a 1.5-mile run, and for recruits training for infantry occupations, ammo can lifts.
Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) | Fitness Fundamentals
Physical fitness is essential to the combat effectiveness of the Marine Corps. Every Marine is required to maintain a high level of fitness regardless of age, gender, or Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The Marine Corps also considers physical fitness an important part of leadership. As
