AMCOM adds new field to prep for ACFT

By Nick JanewayAugust 18, 2022

Maj. Jordan Dilena, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command executive officer, participates in the Army Combat Fitness Test, July 26, 2022, on the new field adjacent to AMCOM headquarters on Redstone Arsenal, Ala. (U.S. Army photo by Jeremy Coburn)
Maj. Jordan Dilena, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command executive officer, participates in the Army Combat Fitness Test, July 26, 2022, on the new field adjacent to AMCOM headquarters on Redstone Arsenal, Ala. (U.S. Army photo by Jeremy Coburn) (Photo Credit: Jeremy Coburn) VIEW ORIGINAL

The U.S. Army recently made a significant change to its physical fitness test by implementing the Army Combat Fitness Test. The test requires new equipment and space to conduct the events. With the deadline to pass the new ACFT rapidly approaching, the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command has created that space.

A new physical fitness field recently opened on the north side of the AMCOM campus. The synthetic turf field features four lanes to complete the ACFT. The equipment needed for the ACFT is housed in a nearby building and access can be gained from the G-3.

Construction on the new field began in October 2021. Helping Soldiers prepare for the new ACFT was the driving force behind the construction.

“The Army’s shift to the ACFT meant we needed to give Soldiers the ability to practice some of the more technique-based movements,” said AMCOM Headquarters and Headquarters Company Commander Capt. Hunter Wilson. “This will greatly enhance the individual Soldier’s ability to maximize their performance on the test.”

The test features new scoring standards scaled to age and gender, and adds a 2.5-mile walk as an alternative aerobic event. Other ACFT events include deadlifts, standing power throw, hand release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, plank and a two-mile run.

“The new ACFT measures the overall fitness of a Soldier,” Smith said. “Soldiers have to be ready. In order to be ready, you have to invest in yourself.”

Wilson said the new field is open to all AMCOM employees and provides the most well-equipped and accessible command building for physical fitness.