PFT Question

[LineInTheSand]

The PFT measures strength and endurance. The CFA supposedly also measures the potential for athleticism. Since athletics is a viable part of the SA experience, I can understand the need for this. However, while I personally can see how the shuttle run might aid in this determination, the basketball throw is beyond me. In answer to your question, once they have been evaluated for the baseline "athleticism", it is no longer an issue.

When I was going through the application process, I did both, and I believe, at the time, we could use either (was there at one time a PAE at any of the academies). For the most part, they were fairly similar. If the CFA is "baseline athletism" you've got some pretty pathetic athletes (which isn't always that far off the mark). "Run here, then back then back then back then back then back again. Boom, you're an athlete!"

There is no great pain for PE coaches, as you would have argued initially. The two tests are not worlds apart, and yet only one academy tests its cadets consistently.

I don't make the general assumption that because USNA or West Point do it one way, that's the best way.

 

[AJM7680]

....(was there at one time a PAE at any of the academies)......

Yes, prior to the inception of the CFA in, or about, 2002 or 2003, each SA had their own test, and their own name for it. It was conveivable for a candidate to have to do five tests (and find someone to administer them).

 

[Packer]

The finding someone to administer them can be a problem/hassle. My son took the fitness test for AROTC, AFROTC, the CFA and PFE. All are a little different so that ended up tieing up, in his case, 4 Saturday mornings. Not a big deal for him but did seem to be a bit of an imposition on coaches/PE teachers as scheduling sometimes took a while. But the rules are the rules and if you want to play . . . .

 

[JMS]

Thanks everyone. I was sincerely curious. Not trying to pick an old scab.