USMC Fitness Standards 2026: What's New for the PFT, CFT, and Body Composition
The Marine Corps updated its fitness standards starting January 1, 2026, and the changes matter most if you are in a combat arms job. Here is a plain breakdown of what is new.
Sex-neutral PFT scoring for combat arms
Marines in combat arms occupational specialties now score the PFT on a single, sex-neutral scale based on the male, age-normed standards. Under this change, combat arms Marines must hit at least 210 out of 300, which is roughly 70 percent of the maximum. Marines outside combat arms continue on the existing age and sex-normed standards.
A new body composition method
The Corps replaced the old height and weight check with a waist-to-height ratio standard. The semiannual requirement is a ratio of 0.52 or lower. Marines who exceed it move to a body fat evaluation using the tape method or a bioelectrical impedance measurement.
What stayed the same
The PFT is still three events scored to 300 points: an upper body event, the plank, and the three-mile run. You still must pass every event, and the class system of first, second, and third still applies. If you need a refresher on what those classes mean, read our PFT classes guide.
How to get ahead of it
If you are in a combat arms role, the move is simple: train to the higher bar now rather than scramble later. Score your test on our USMC PFT and CFT calculator, then build your plan with our guide to maxing the PFT.
3-Pack Battle Bands
Meet the new standard with strength to spare. The Battle Bands build pull-ups and pressing power and assist you to stricter reps, anywhere.
Shop now →Standards are set by the Marine Corps and were rolling out through 2026. Confirm current requirements with official Marine Corps sources.
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