The U.S. Coast Guard is making significant changes to its physical fitness assessments, and starting January 2026, every service member will be required to take an annual force-wide Physical Fitness Test (PFT). This new standard replaces the long-standing “tape tests” previously used to measure physical readiness and aligns the Coast Guard with fitness assessments similar to those in other branches of the military.
From Tape Tests to Force-wide PFTs
For years, many Coast Guard personnel have undergone annual tape tests to assess body composition and overall fitness. Beginning in 2026, those tests will be phased out in favor of a standardized PFT based on the Coast Guard’s physical assessment for boat crews.
Before the official PFT is implemented, all personnel will take a Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) by the end of 2025. This PFA will follow the current Boat Crew Physical Fitness Standards, which measure scores in:
- Push-ups
- Planks
- One of the following:
- 1.5-mile run
- 12-minute swim
- 2,000-meter row
According to Coast Guard officials, the results of the PFA will remain anonymous and will not be used punitively.
Instead, they will help the Coast Guard determine how best to implement the PFT and provide servicemembers with actionable data to improve their fitness plans.
Who Is Affected?
- Current Coast Guard personnel: Transitioning from tape tests to PFTs
- Boat crews: Already subject to fitness standards based on push-ups, planks, and cardio tests
- Boot camp recruits, Coast Guard Academy cadets, and Officer Candidate School students: Already take fitness tests
- Personnel with medical restrictions: Exempt from PFA and PFT requirements
Like the current boat crew standards, the new PFT will have age-based scoring to ensure fairness across all personnel.
How to Prepare for the Coast Guard PFT
Whether you’re a boat crew member or a service member preparing for your first PFT, starting your fitness training now can make a big difference. Focus on exercises that match the test components:
Push-Ups
- Standard push-ups, chest-to-floor form
- Variations: incline push-ups, diamond push-ups, and explosive push-ups for power
Planks
- Standard forearm plank, holding for time
- Side planks to improve core stability
- Dynamic planks: alternating arm or leg lifts
Cardiovascular Endurance
Choose the cardio option most applicable to you:
- 1.5-mile run: Include interval sprints and long-distance runs for stamina
- 12-minute swim: Practice freestyle, focusing on steady pacing
- 2,000-meter row: Build rowing endurance and core strength
Sample Weekly Training Routine
The current Boat Crew Physical Fitness Standards are broken down by age, and this will also be the case for the new PFT. Here’s the current unofficial Coast Guard Boat Crew Physical Fitness Standards with planks replacing sit-ups:
Resources for Training and Guidance
Preparing for the Coast Guard’s new Physical Fitness Test doesn’t have to be daunting.
Service members can lean on the U.S. Coast Guard Physical Fitness Program for official guidance, tap into the Navy Physical Readiness Program for extra tips on building strength and endurance, and explore the American Council on Exercise for structured workouts and fitness strategies.
With the right plan and consistent training, you can meet—and even exceed—the new PFT standards. Your fitness readiness today builds the strength and confidence that will carry you through every challenge at sea.
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