Do I have to be super fit to join the Army?
Nobody will expect you to be a superhero when you apply to join the Army. You will need to have a good level of fitness, but once you're in, you'll be helped by our experts - as well as by your mates to be as fit as you can be.
If you want to start working towards being Army Fit now, check out our 100% Army Fit app, available for both iOS and Android.
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
- 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.
NEXT STEPS
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?
Not sure where to start, or what you could do? Explore our guide to the different ways to join.
ARMY RECRUITING PROCESS
Learn about the recruitment process and how to prepare for the Army assessment.