Can I join the military if I'm out of shape?
Michael King
Updated on February 22, 2026
You don't have to be extremely fit to join the army. You do need to be within the normal weight range for someone your height and should be able to pass a diagnostic Army Physical Fitness Test, but beyond that, Basic Combat Training will prepare you for the physical fitness standards of the big army.
Do you need to be fit to join the military?
If you are thinking of joining the United States Military, you will have to take a military fitness test to enter, as well as every six months once you have completed your basic training and are serving in your military job.Can you go into the army unfit?
To be found unfit for duty, you: must have a medical condition that disqualifies you from fitness for service, and. cannot reasonably be expected to perform the duties of your rank and military career due to this medical condition.Can you go to basic training out of shape?
You won't fail military basic training for being out of shape (the instructors won't let you), but they'll keep you in basic training as long as it takes for you to pass the standards. If you have a little extra time, make sure that you look over military law and what constitutes a crime in the military in Appendix A.Can a fat person join the military?
Applicants who qualify through the ARMS test get a free pass on being overweight, but they do have to get themselves in shape within a year of entering active duty. Early research suggests that recruits who get ARMS waivers have attrition rates similar to enlistees who enter the Army without a waiver.DONT JOIN THE MILITARY IF THIS APPLIES TO YOU
What is the max body fat for Army?
Army Body Fat AssessmentArmy Regulation 600-9 states that Males are allowed the following Body Fat Standards. However, all personnel are encouraged to achieve the more stringent DOD goals which is 18 % body fat for males and 26 % body fat for females.
How fat is too fat for the army?
The maximum allowable percentage of body fat for men ranges from 18 to 26 percent depending on service and age, while for women it ranges from 26 to 34 percent (See Table 2-3). Each of the services screens active duty personnel either annually or semiannually for fitness and compliance with weight-for-height standards.What's the easiest branch of military?
- The US Air Force is considered the easiest military branch overall. ...
- The US Army is considered the easiest military branch to get into, Image: Wikimedia.org.
- Air Force basic training is considered the easiest out of all of the military branches. ...
- The US Air Force is considered the easiest branch for women.
How do you get in shape for military?
How to Get in Shape for the Army – Basic Training
- Start a Split Schedule. Now isn't the time to stick to your once-a-day, mediocre workout. ...
- Run, Run, Run. During basic training, you'll be required to complete a timed run that spans two miles. ...
- Build Your Upper Body. ...
- Ramp Up Your Sit-Ups. ...
- Stretch to Improve Flexibility.
Does the army have a fat camp?
The Army Weight Control Program ensures every soldier is healthy, physically fit and combat ready. The program requires you to meet specific weight standards, which are based on height, weight and gender. Under the AWCP, you will be required to weigh-in at least once every six months.What disqualifies you for the military?
To enlist, you must be qualified under current federal laws and regulations or have an appropriate waiver. There are age, citizenship, physical, education, height/weight, criminal record, medical, and drug history standards that can exclude you from joining the military.What would disqualify you from the military?
There are many specific medical conditions that may disqualify you from joining the U.S. Military. These include conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, epilepsy, heart issues, Asperger's, and PTSD.What conditions disqualify you from the military?
What Types of Disabilities are Disqualifying?
- Blindness or low vision that does not correct with glasses.
- Deafness of hard of hearing, even with the use of a hearing aid.
- History of Bariatric Surgery.
- Anything that interferes with the proper wearing of a military uniform or equipment. Limitation of motion. HIV or AIDS.
How many pushups can you do in 2 minutes in the Army?
Ranger recruits have two minutes to finish 49 push-ups, and another two minutes to finish 59 sit-ups. They have to complete a two-mile run in less than 15 minutes and 12 seconds, as well as a five-mile run in 40 minutes or less.What is the hardest military fitness test?
Russia Alpha Group SpetsnazThis is the toughest physical fitness assessment on the list and the only one that involves actual fighting. Suffice it to say, it's not for the faint of heart.