New Fitness Options Signal Major Shift in Air Force Readiness

The Air Force is updating fitness test standards, offering more exercise options, and resuming official testing under new rules in July 2026.
Air Force Revises Physical Fitness Program, Adds Two-Mile Run and Updated Body Composition Standards

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Air Force will pause all Physical Fitness Assessments to transition to an updated program, with scored testing resuming September 1, 2026. The revised Physical Fitness Assessment includes a two-mile run, body composition measurement using the Waist-to-Height Ratio, and a 100-point scoring system across cardiorespiratory, muscle strength, and core endurance categories. Airmen will be required to test every six months, with diagnostic tests offered from March 1 through August 31, 2026, to help service members adapt to the new standards.