Marine Corps CFT: Events, Scoring, and How to Train for Each One
The Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test, or CFT, is the Corps' combat-focused fitness test, run in the second half of the year opposite the PFT. Where the PFT measures general fitness, the CFT is built to mimic the demands of a fight: moving fast, lifting under fatigue, and hauling a buddy out of danger. Here is how the three events work, how they are scored, and how to train for them.
What is the CFT?
The CFT is three timed events done in sequence in a single session, wearing the utility uniform. Each event is scored from 0 to 100 for a maximum of 300 points, with a minimum of 40 points required per event to pass. Like the PFT, your total places you in a class and feeds your record.
The three CFT events
Movement to Contact (MTC)
An 880-yard timed run, roughly two laps of a track, that simulates rushing toward an objective. It is short enough to run hard but long enough to punish anyone with a weak engine. This is a pure speed and conditioning test.
Ammo Can Lift (ACL)
You press a 30-pound ammo can from your shoulders to overhead for as many reps as possible in two minutes. It hammers your shoulders, triceps, and grip while your heart rate is already high. Pacing matters, since blowing out your reps in the first 30 seconds leaves you stalled.
Maneuver Under Fire (MUF)
A roughly 300-yard timed shuttle that strings together sprints, an agility course, high and low crawls, a buddy drag and fireman carry, an ammo can carry, push-ups, and a grenade throw. It is the most complex event and the one that separates well-rounded Marines from one-dimensional ones.
How the CFT is scored
Each event converts your raw performance into a 0 to 100 score based on your age and gender, and the three add up to a 300-point maximum. You need at least 40 in every event to pass, and as with the PFT, failing one event fails the test. You can see exactly how your run time, lift count, and MUF time translate into points on our USMC PFT and CFT calculator.
How to train for the CFT
The CFT rewards a hybrid athlete: someone with a fast 800, real overhead endurance, and the strength to move a body and a load. Build all three.
- For the MTC, train 800-meter repeats and shorter sprint intervals to raise your speed and lactate tolerance.
- For the ACL, do timed overhead press sets with a similar load, plus grip and shoulder endurance work, and practice the two-minute format so you learn your pace.
- For the MUF, rehearse the movements: crawls, carries, and sprints under fatigue. Loaded carries, sled work, and sandbag training build the exact strength it demands.
Our MANUF strategy guide breaks down the maneuver-under-fire course in detail, and our complete CFT training plan ties it all together.
The Skirmish Training Sandbag
The CFT is carries, lifts, and sprints. The Skirmish sandbag (20 to 40 lbs) trains the ammo can lift, the maneuver under fire, and the conditioning behind your run.
Shop now →Marine Corps CFT FAQ
How is the CFT scored?
Three events, each worth up to 100 points, for a 300-point maximum. You need at least 40 points per event to pass.
How heavy is the ammo can?
30 pounds. You press it from shoulder height to overhead for max reps in two minutes.
How long is the Movement to Contact?
880 yards, about two laps of a standard track.
When do Marines take the CFT?
Generally in the second half of the year, opposite the PFT, though exact windows are set by the Marine Corps and your command.
CFT standards and scoring are set by the Marine Corps and updated periodically. Confirm current requirements through official Marine Corps sources.
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