My little trip out to the desert made me miss a quite important MarAdmin that was published on Sept 8th regarding the conduct of the CFT.  MarAdmin 521/08 states that Marines now have until March 31 2009 (vice Dec 31 2008) to run their initial CFT.  The test is still pass/fail during the first year, but will soon change to a 3 class scoring system similar to the PFT.

Scoring The CFT

When the new scoring system is put into place a Marine’s CFT score will count towards promotion (Composite score for LCpl’s and Cpl’s & a new block on the FitRep for Sgt’s and above).  If you do not pass the CFT you will get the same treatment as failing a PFT, you will not be eligible for promotion.  The standards for scoring have not been set but you can find preliminary expectations for 100 point scores on each event here.

Scored CFT Sooner

Along with the reprieve of three months of being required to run your initial CFT you will now be required to run your first scored CFT July 1st 2009 vice Oct 1 2009.  The reason for moving the scored CFT up is to get it in the same rotation as your semi-annual PFT.  Starting July 1 2009 Marines will be required to run two scored CFTs a year along with your current semi-annual PFTs.  Running of the CFT does not exempt you from the PFT.

Conduct of the CFT

The CFT is an anerobic test compared to the areobic test of the PFT.  It is designed to measure fitness when short burst of energy are needed.  The test includes a 880 yard (1/2 mile) run, an ammo can lift, and a 300 yard obstacle course.  All events are performed in boots and utes.  I have had the opportunity to run the CFT and while it is challenging it is not impossible.  The run is easily finished in the alotted 4 minutes, 30 lb ammo cans get heavy quick so get a good technique down, and the obstacle course isn’t that bad at all.  You will definately need to train and you can find training tips here.

Related posts:

  1. December Cutting Scores