Pentagon Adopts Sex-Neutral Physical Fitness Standards for Combat Arms Roles
The Pentagon has formalized "sex-neutral" physical fitness standards for all military occupations classified as "combat arms," requiring male and female troops to pass identical tests for these demanding roles. The updated Defense Department policy, which replaces the 2022 fitness program,…
Salt Lake City, UT, September 10, 2026 —
The U.S. Department of Defense has implemented updated physical fitness standards across all military occupations designated as “combat arms.” This significant policy shift mandates that both male and female service members must now meet identical testing requirements to qualify for these physically demanding roles.
This directive signifies a move toward sex-neutral testing, ensuring that the physical demands of combat arms occupations are assessed uniformly, irrespective of gender. The aim is to maintain consistent readiness and capability across all personnel assigned to these critical positions.
The new policy supersedes the fitness program established in 2022. In addition to the standardized physical tests, the updated regulations also introduce new guidelines concerning body composition standards. Furthermore, the Defense Department has detailed specific testing protocols designed for service members who are postpartum, acknowledging the need for tailored approaches during recovery and return to duty.
The implementation of these sex-neutral standards is a key component of the Defense Department’s ongoing efforts to modernize its personnel policies and ensure its forces are prepared for the challenges of contemporary military operations. The specifics of the new tests and standards have been formalized to align with the rigorous demands associated with combat arms specialties.
Story summarized from the original created by Jason Swensen on www.deseret.com, see more information here.
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