Preparing for the CFA

DyllanA

USAFA2019
5-Year Member
Joined
May 12, 2013
Messages
25
Just took a practice CFA and my results were close to the averages that are posted on the academy website, but we're still under (my run was probably the worst with 7:36). I was planning on working out over the summer, but is that enough time to actually meet the posted averages. Also if there are any workout plans or websites that you would recommend.

Thanks


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Yes, that is absolutely enough time. While I'm sure others will chime in with plans, the biggest thing you can do is actually work out. A lot.

For running especially-- just get out and run! Do some miles at speed, some distance, some sprints. Go up and down hills. Run with music. Run without music. It will be good for you, good for your time, and if/when you get accepted and decide to attend, being in good cardio shape (and having built up some mental toughness regarding running) will be a plus.
 
Why are you trying to "Meet the Posted Averages"? Why aren't you trying to ACE all the tests? In your academics, do try to get a 4.0gpa in every class on every test..... or are you just trying to meet the minimum requirements?

I'm not trying to sound facetious; I'm simply trying to make an observation. The CFA is one of the very few things in your application process that you actually have complete control over. Your academics is an average of all your classes in high school. If you didn't do well in one class in a semester, it will lower your GPA. That's why there are very few individuals who have maintained a perfect 4.0gpa throughout all 3-4 years of high school. But the CFA and the ACT/SAT are the two things that not only do you have complete control over, they are the 2 things that can make up for any shortcomings you have in the rest of your application. You could have a 3.4gpa; but if you nail a 35 ACT Composite or a 2300 SAT, you will definitely be making up for that low gpa.

Point is; you should be trying to MAX OUT the CFA. Just like your goal should be a 36 composite ACT and 2400 SAT; as well as getting a 4.0gpa on all of your classes. Trying to "Meet the Posted Averages" shouldn't be your goal. Maybe you blow the averages out of the water. Maybe you score BELOW the average. That isn't what's important. What's important is; that you try your best to ACE everything. To give everything you do 100%.

If you don't have time to do something right; what makes you think you'll have time to do it over again? Best of luck. Mike....
 
It was a long, long time ago, but I made the biggest advances on pushups and situps while in the Army by lifting weights. I'm far from a meathead, but got close to maxing the pushups from weight training. Sit ups improved a lot too.

That's my .02 cents, probably not even worth that much.
 
Yes, that is absolutely enough time. While I'm sure others will chime in with plans, the biggest thing you can do is actually work out. A lot.

For running especially-- just get out and run! Do some miles at speed, some distance, some sprints. Go up and down hills. Run with music. Run without music. It will be good for you, good for your time, and if/when you get accepted and decide to attend, being in good cardio shape (and having built up some mental toughness regarding running) will be a plus.

This is probably the best advice you can get. If you ask 100 different people you'll get 100 different answers about how best to get in better shape. The most important thing is to get out there and DO it, pick a plan and stick with it--you'll really benefit in the long run!
 
Since I was only taking 6 classes first semester, I ran cross country as well and this made a HUGE difference for me. In July I was running a 6:05 and by the end of XC season, I was running a 5:18. If you have time and you dont want to join the team, then maybe practice with them on select days if not everyday. This will impact your mile time in a tremendous way.
 
I know starting to amp up your workout can seem like it will take forever to see changes, but keep you head up. With running I found that if you run 3 to 4 days in a row, take a break for a day, and then pick up running again, you will see a drastic improvement. It keeps you motivated.

Also, focus on flutter kicks, sit ups, pushups, burpees, and running.

You can do this!
 
My DD used a personal trainer (if you can afford one). She did well on the CFA and continued working with a personal trainer (ex-Marine). She was able to max out pushups, situps, 15 pullups, and she ran, ran, and ran. He also had her stay in the front leaning rest for 10 minutes at a time and worked with her on flutter kicks. She was ready for I day. If you get accepted, always try to max out!
 
I'd recommend creating a weekly split incorporating each exercise then complete a mock CFT at the end of the week. Using the results from your mock increase reps for the next week's split. Try to build yourself up to repetitions higher than the max this way you can max on fatigue.
 
Dyllan;

You are already in decent shape, so the following workout could really help you out:

- Run a 400 Meter in 90 seconds, and then walk one
- Repeat 6-8 times
- Do this twice a week

The key is learning how to pace yourself. For example, you should be at 45 seconds at half distance, and then, obviously, at 90 when you complete the lap. Sounds easy, but it's not. However, it is doable and it will get your mile time down in a hurry.

Good Luck!
 
Thanks to all those who answered my post. It helped a lot planning workout schedule to prepare me for the CFA.
 
My son is a 2019 hopeful, and he's been training for months. He lifts weights and conditions as part of the high school football team, but also works out on his own. 4x week he runs 3 miles, 2 at an easy pace with the last as a max. He also does push ups, pull ups, and sit ups. He does not miss a workout. He's on vacation with a friend this week, and the mom texted me saying he's been waking up before everyone to run and workout. She asked how I "get" him to be so dedicated. Are you kidding? It comes from within.
 
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