The Air Force announced an update to its Physical Fitness Readiness Program (PFRP) in a Directive Type Memorandum introducing new standards and scoring models designed to better align with the demands of modern warfare and promote the long-term health of every Airman.
The modernized program is anchored in scientifically grounded health measures and a more rigorous assessment model. The goal is to enhance warfighter readiness by encouraging Airmen to build durable fitness habits that support sustained, career-long performance.
"Our new standards are designed to help Airmen build fitness habits that will serve them throughout their careers and hopefully a long life," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. "This update is not just about increasing the physical fitness test standards; it's about ensuring our warfighters are fit, ready, and prioritizing their long-term health."
In conjunction with the updated program, score charts have been updated with increased minimums for each scored component, as well as separate charts now available for Occupationally Specific Physical Fitness Assessments. These adjustments are intentional and directly align with the program's renewed emphasis on long-term health, readiness, and overall warfighter effectiveness.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Air Force will implement a baseline window for Airmen to take diagnostic tests starting March 1, 2026. This period is designed to give Airmen time to understand the new standards, assess their current performance against the updated charts, and adjust their training focus before scoring becomes official on July 1, 2026. The baseline period will also provide the data required to assess and refine score charts in advance of full implementation of the new standards. Airmen who complete the Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment (PFRA) during the baseline period may elect to record their diagnostic test score as an official fitness test score. This may be especially beneficial for Airmen in cold-weather locations who wish to align their next due-date to a time when weather is more conducive to outdoor testing in their region.
Airmen may reference the PFRA Due Date Matrix on MyFSS in the Knowledge Base application to learn more about testing timelines.
Body composition will return as a scored component assessed in the PFRA. Airmen may elect to take this component of the test up to five duty days before assessing the remaining PFRA components.
Airmen and commanders are encouraged to make full use of diagnostic testing during this baseline period. This phase will provide valuable data to ensure the updated PFRP is implemented in a manner that is fair, accurate, and effective across the force. To support the force through this transition, a robust set of resources will be available:
- Master Fitness Leaders: These trained experts will be available at installations to guide unit-level Peer Fitness Leaders and Airmen through safe and effective conditioning, reconditioning, and adaptive fitness programs.
- The Warfighter Fitness Playbook: This guide offers detailed guidance on workouts, recovery strategies, sleep optimization, and nutrition-all interconnected elements essential for sustained performance.
- The Pregnancy & Postpartum Performance Training Guide: To ensure comprehensive support for all Airmen, this guide provides tailored physical training and wellness recommendations for pregnant and postpartum Airmen.
The certification of the 2-mile run tracks to ensure all Air Force tracks meet official standards is in progress. Final guidance on measurement specifications (e.g. meters, feet, yards, etc.) will be published in AFMAN 36-2905.
"Airmen are the heart of the Air Force, and their readiness is essential to mission success," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David R. Wolfe. "Our new standards are designed to prepare them for the demands of today and the future fight. They give every one of our Airmen an opportunity to grow in an important part of their lives."
Additionally, as previously announced, PFRA scores will become part of an Airman's annual evaluation to incorporate a full picture of an individual's performance and contributions. Official guidance in AFI 36-2406 released this week for implementation.
This evolution of the fitness program represents a deliberate investment in the force, ensuring that Airmen are not only prepared for the challenges of today, but are also physically sustained for a long and healthy career.
