Personnel can now tackle events such as Ninja Warrior and True Grit with the new Australian Army Functional Fitness Association (AAFFA).
Approved in late June, it will also include other team-based games such as Tough Mudder, adventure races, Tribal Clash and Tuff Games.
The association's approval follows the rise of fitness racing competitions across Australia and internationally.
Combining functional strength, endurance and mental resilience, these events simulate high-intensity, unpredictable environments where competitors must think on their feet.
Operations coordinator Lieutenant Jo Crooks established the association after realising the positive impact the sport had on her own career.
"I feel like everyone in the Army is competitive and this brings that competitive spirit. But I wanted to create something that's really team-based and cohesive," she said.
"You get to the other end, and you feel so satisfied and so happy with what you've done. It gives you another opportunity to do what we love and want from being in the Army."
'Adventure racing tests both navigation and physical endurance across multiple disciplines - skills important to all soldiers.'
Adventure racer Lieutenant Colonel David Manzin is excited to see his discipline included.
"Adventure racing tests both navigation and physical endurance across multiple disciplines - skills important to all soldiers," he said.
"It rewards team work and resilience, so it's a great fit in the new association."
Private Brock Spanton, who has been doing endurance training for several years, was selected to compete in the AAFFA 2025 tournament.
"My passion had finally paid off," he said.
"I've been selected to compete because I competed in four Spartan races and got fourth place out of 180 and qualified for the Spartan World Championships in West Virginia, Croatia and France.
"Also, I qualified for the Australian obstacle course racing team to compete in Sweden to qualify for the 2028 Olympics."
The association will hold an annual tournament inviting each state to participate with a selected squad.
So far, they have more than 320 members on their books and are expecting the numbers to grow.
Athletes will be selected to compete individually or as teams, depending on the format.
