Fitness

As part of the joining process we will help you to fine tune your fitness, so don't worry if you're not quite at the level we need yet.

TAKING THE FITNESS TEST
WHAT ARE THE TESTS I NEED TO PASS TO JOIN AS AN OFFICER?
STAYING HEALTHY

GET 100% ARMY FIT

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TAKING THE FITNESS TEST

Everyone joining the Army will need to pass a fitness test.

If you're looking to join as a soldier, you'll go through a range of strength and stamina tests, as well as a run. These include a jerry can carry, a static lift and a 1.5 mile run.

The weight, distance and speed you need to meet changes from role to role.

To find out what you will need to achieve at assessment centre, visit role finder for fitness details.

WHAT ARE THE TESTS I NEED TO PASS TO JOIN AS AN OFFICER?

There are four specific tests you'll need to take during officer selection and the pre-entry tests.

Beep test:

You need to run between two lines, 20m apart in time with a beep. The beeps get steadily faster. Your score is based on the point where you can no longer keep up.

Other tests include sit-ups and press-ups.

Males need to reach level 10.2
Females need to reach level 8.1

Sit-ups:

Everyone must be able to perform 50 in two minutes

Press-ups:

Males 44 in two minutes
Females: 21 in two minutes

1.5 mile run:

Males 10 min 30 sec
Females 12 min 45 sec

STAYING HEALTHY

Eating well

Getting yourself in top condition to join the Army includes focusing on your diet. Eating well will help you feel more energised and reach your fitness goals. There are loads of guides to follow to get inspired about eating well. This will also help you stay on track to have a healthy BMI - which you need to pass.

After assessment

It's important to remember that you need to keep a level of fitness after your assessment, so that you're in great shape when it comes to starting your training. Being in the Army is physically demanding, and you need to get your body ready for this by staying fit while you wait for your start date.

Your BMI (Body Mass Index)

Your BMI (body mass index), is a score that is worked out from your weight and height. It is used to work out if you're a healthy weight or under/over weight.

Why is it important?

Joining the Army is physically challenging, and if you're not in good condition, you're at a higher risk of injury during training.

BMI scores for joining the Army

If you're looking to join the Army, you'll be expected to meet the following scores:

Over 18: BMI = 18 - 28
16 & 17: BMI = 17 - 27

You might still be able to join if you are:

Male over 18 with a BMI between 28 and 32
Female over 18 with a BMI between 28 and 30

It could still be possible to join the Army, following extra assessments.

GET 100% ARMY FIT

Whether you're just thinking about joining the Army, have applied, or are waiting to join, our 100% ArmyFit app can help you prepare.

Newly updated, the app will test your current fitness level, and then build you a workout plan based on the areas you need to develop, as well as how long you have until you visit the assessment centre.

Designed by Army physical training instructors, the app will help you develop your overall fitness levels, which will help you to build and maintain a good physical standard, without risking injury. The app has videos to help you master the right techniques, and a training programme, designed to help you progress.

DO I HAVE TO PASS A MEDICAL?

You do need to be healthy to join, and your GP will be asked to fill out a form about your health quite early in your application. You'll have a medical test when you go along to the assessment centre, to make sure that you've not got any underlying issues.