EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — The U.S. Air Force has announced updates to its physical fitness assessment standards and implementation timeline, changes that will apply to Airmen stationed at Eglin Air Force Base and installations worldwide.
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According to the Air Force, revisions to the previously announced September 2025 plan include a shortened diagnostic testing period and expanded exercise options for required fitness assessments.
“We care about the long-term health of our Airmen, and that starts with physical fitness,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach.
“The habits Airmen build by working out daily directly impact their quality of life in and out of uniform. I am confident our commanders will continue to implement a culture of fitness so our warfighters are healthy and ready.”
Under the updated bi-annual physical fitness assessment, Airmen will be given several exercise choices across testing categories.
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For cardiovascular testing, Airmen may choose between a two-mile run or the 20-meter High Aerobic Multi-shuttle Run. Strength testing will allow either one minute of push-ups or two minutes of hand-release push-ups.
Core strength options will include one minute of sit-ups, two minutes of cross-leg reverse crunches, or a timed forearm plank. Body composition will be measured using a waist-to-height ratio.
From March 1 through June 30, 2026, all fitness tests will be diagnostic only, allowing Airmen time to adapt to the new standards. Official testing under the updated program will resume July 1, 2026. Fitness testing is currently paused as the Air Force transitions to the new assessment structure.
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Beginning in February 2026, physical fitness assessment scores will be included in officer and enlisted performance briefs, following guidance from the Secretary of War.
The first group affected will be colonels in February, followed by lieutenant colonels, majors, and chief master sergeants in May 2026. Senior airman evaluation briefs closing out in March 2026 will not include fitness scores.
The Air Force noted that the most recent physical fitness score included in an Airman’s performance brief may reflect results achieved under previous testing standards.
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“Your physical health is important to us, not just as a readiness metric but as a human being as well,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David R. Wolfe.
“When you’re physically healthy, you are not only happier, but in a better position to excel at your job.”
Updated fitness score charts and a revised version of AFMAN 36-2905, Air Force Physical Fitness Program, are expected to be released in the coming months, according to the Air Force.
