Fitness tests in the military reserves - Which are considered easier?

Hi everyone! I'm a high school junior who's been toying with the thought of joining the military reserves after graduation. I'm pretty active but I know military fitness standards are another level. Can anyone shed light on which reserve branches have less strenuous physical tests?

When it comes to military fitness tests, the specific standards can vary greatly depending on the branch of the military reserves you are considering. I'll outline a brief description for some of the most common ones:

- Army: This branch recently switched to the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), which includes events like a deadlift, a standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, a sprint-drag-carry event, leg tuck, and a two-mile run. A minimum score is required to pass, and the score required to pass varies by job role (MOS).

- Air Force: Their test involves a timed 1.5-mile run, as well as minimum requirements for push-ups and sit-ups in a minute each. They also include a measurement of your abdominal circumference as part of the body composition component.

- Navy: Similar to the Air Force, the Navy requires a 1.5-mile run but their test also includes swimming laps, as well as push-ups and sit-ups. Body composition is evaluated via measuring waist circumference.

- Marine Corps: You're looking at pull-ups (or push-ups), abdominal crunches, and a three-mile run.

- Coast Guard: This test includes a 1.5-mile run along with push-ups, sit-ups, and a swim test.

From a purely quantitative viewpoint, many might argue that the Air Force has the "easiest" physical fitness test, primarily because the minimum requirements for the push-ups and sit-ups components, as well as the run time, are generally lower compared to the other branches. However, this is quite subjective and greatly depends on an individual's strengths. For instance, if you're a strong swimmer, you might find the Navy's standards easier to meet.

That being said, it's crucial to note that each of these tests is designed to measure the physical prowess needed for that particular branch, and each respective branch's missions and operations. Therefore, while it's important to consider the physical requirements, you should also take into account other factors like your own interests, skills, and the branch's mission when deciding which military branch to join.

Also remember to use specific training plans to prepare for these tests. They are designed to be challenging and require dedicated training. There are many resources available online to help you train for these different events, improving your strength, speed, and endurance. Just make sure to give yourself ample time to prepare and to start slowly if you're new to this type of training. Good luck!