Navy Introduces Bi-Annual Fitness Tests

Changes in the Navy’s Physical Readiness Program

The Navy announced today that sailors will be required to take two physical fitness tests per year, starting in January 2026. The new policies linked to the Navy’s Physical Readiness Program will be implemented as per the schedule.

The new guidance is available on MyNavyHR. As per the new policy, sailors will undergo two fitness assessment cycles each year. The first round will be held between January and June, and the second round will be from July to December.

Reinstating Pre-pandemic Fitness Test Cycles

The reinstated policy matches the Navy’s pre-pandemic fitness test cycles. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Navy held two tests per year. The pandemic led to the suspension of one of the tests in 2020, and only one test was conducted in 2021. This new directive reinstates the twice-yearly test frequency, confirmed by the Navy’s senior enlisted sailor this month.

Master Chief Officer of the Navy John Perryman told Task & Purpose earlier in December, “For the majority of our sailors outside of our combat arms ratings, it will be the PT test we take now. It will just be given twice a year.”

The decision to reinstate the biannual tests came after a September directive from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. He required all military branches to conduct two fitness tests per year.

Details of the Upcoming Fitness Tests

Sailors in combat arms roles, like Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technicians and Navy SEALs, will undertake both the Physical Fitness Assessment and Combat Fitness Assessment. All other sailors will take the Physical Fitness Assessment twice a year, including sailors from the Reserves on active-duty orders for a year or more. The assessment will consist of a Body Composition Assessment and the Navy’s Physical Readiness Test, consisting of push-ups, planks, and a 1.5-mile run.

New Standards for Body Composition Assessment

Notably, the Navy has revised its Body Composition Assessment to be sex-neutral. It will now comprise two elements: a waist-to-height ratio and a body composition calculation. Even if sailors do not meet standards of the Body Composition Assessment, they can pass the physical fitness assessment provided they score “Outstanding-Low overall with an Excellent-Medium or higher” in all three physical readiness tests.

Policy on Physical Fitness Assessment Failures

According to the Navy, any physical fitness assessment failures before 2026 are “reset to zero,” concerning reenlistment, promotion, or other career advancements. However, previous failures will be considered in other matters. Sailors failing three assessments within four years will be deemed ineligible for service and set for administrative separation.

Special Considerations for Recently Pregnant Sailors

Sailors who were recently pregnant are granted a grace period, according to the fact sheet. They have a 12-month deferment period, after which they will be required to participate in the next physical assessment period.