Can my company give APFTs at off-post locations?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 19:09:53 -0500

We have a track everyone uses but my command team feels it’s too short. They measured a track off post however it is a dirt track and is not exactly flat, as it does have potholes. They do not provide transportation to the soldiers to the test site and it is approximately 20-30min from post.

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Jan 30 at 2018 7:44 PM

CPL Rick Stasny — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 19:44:55 -0500

I'm not quite sure how a track can be too short. Two miles is still two measured miles. I know it has been a while since I've been in, but we ran wherever and whenever instructed. Play the game and feel good someday when you wrap yourself in a DD 214 blanket. Lol

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2018 8:12 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 20:12:08 -0500

SGT Private RallyPoint Member Is that the only track on base, and since it is short, are they planning on making it regulation?

Response by Maj John Bell made Jan 30 at 2018 8:44 PM

Maj John Bell — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 20:44:35 -0500

Track...? Really...? Why is it that I just don't understand some of the problems Army units have? Is this a regular Amy unit? Aboard a US Army Installation?

When I was a pup in the Marine Corps, I cannot remember a CP, BOQ, or BEQ that didn't have a set of Pull-up bars and sit toe bars. As far as the run was concerned we ran a course where company formation could march there and back. I remember PFT runs with 6 inch deep puddles 20 foot long. Marines didn't straggle about to training activities, and sure hell didn't get back in their POV's until secured for the day.

Response by PFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 6:19 AM

PFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 06:19:41 -0500

If the track is correctly measured and complies with FM 7-22, then it's usable. Terrain should be discussed at the beginning of the event, and so hazards if any would be pointed out for the safety of Soldiers. That is all though. Friendly reminder that a track not being flat shouldn't stop a physically prepared soldier from passing their PT test and is not a valid complaint or reason for someone having failed. Standards are set, and in real life situations, terrain isn't even going to be discussed let alone considered before you're expected to run and perform tasks that are physically demanding. Furthermore, if transportation is an issue, bring it up during the AAR which should follow after the events have been competed, and coordinate with battle buddies beforehand to make sure that you're all there and on time. It doesn't sound like your command is doing anything "illegal" and or "immoral", but if you and others do have issues with it, work with them to fix it. Never be afraid to talk to your leadership. Closed mouths don't get fed.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 8:54 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 08:54:16 -0500

Of course they can do an APFT off-post. Guard and Reserve units do this routinely.
The only issue really is whether the site can be controlled and meets requirements for elevation change.
The problem with road courses is that there are often issues with the state of repair, loose gravel, and this time of year icy areas. That can be covered in a safety brief.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jan 31 at 2018 9:09 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 09:09:34 -0500

Sure can.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2018 12:04 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 12:04:06 -0500

Thanks everyone for the input. Like I mentioned I don’t mind the locations for the PT test, it’s just something that seemed off to me.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 3 at 2018 1:08 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 13:08:01 -0500

I guess you have not had the fun of taking the APFT at different development schools, during deployments, etc. Bottom line, the APFT can be given at any location as long as the site meets the minimum requirements. As for transportation, it is up to the unit to ensure all have transportation to and from (2 1/2, bus, 80pax, etc.)