This page explains the DAFMAN 36-2905 fitness regulation in plain English. For score table lookups visit the USAF PT score charts. For a 2026 requirements overview see the Air Force PT standards 2026. To calculate your score use the 2026 Air Force PT Test Calculator. For pass/fail rules see the Air Force PT test minimums.
What is DAFMAN 36-2905?
Department of the Air Force Manual 36-2905 (DAFMAN 36-2905) is the official regulatory document that governs the Air Force's fitness program. It defines the Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment (PFRA) — the twice-yearly fitness test all Active Duty, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve Airmen must complete.
Sometimes searched as dafman 26-2905 — the correct document is DAFMAN 36-2905.
The manual was significantly revised in early 2026, with Secretary of the Air Force/Manpower and Reserve Affairs (SAF/MR) signing a Directive-type Memorandum (DTM) on 26 February 2026. The new standards took effect 1 March 2026.
Key Provisions at a Glance
| Provision | 2026 Standard |
|---|---|
| Testing frequency | Twice per year (bi-annual), mandatory for all Airmen |
| Passing composite | ≥ 75 out of 100 points |
| Component minimum | ≥ 60% of each component's max points |
| Cardio event | 2-mile run or 20m HAMR shuttle (50 pts max) |
| Strength event | Push-ups or hand-release push-ups (15 pts max) |
| Core event | Sit-ups, cross-leg reverse crunches, or forearm plank (15 pts max) |
| Body composition | Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) — replaces tape test (20 pts max) |
| Score on record | Diagnostic window: 1 Mar – 30 Jun 2026. Official scoring resumes 1 Jul 2026. |
| Administrators | Unit Fitness Program Managers (UFPM) and Master Fitness Leaders (MFL) |
| Performance briefs | PFA results included in officer/enlisted performance briefs |
Why Did DAFMAN 36-2905 Change?
The Air Force announced the redesigned PFRA in September 2025, citing three main goals:
Shift emphasis from "looking fit" to functional aerobic capacity. The 2-mile run is a better predictor of combat load-carrying performance than the 1.5-mile.
WHtR is gender-neutral and race-neutral compared to older body fat measurement methods, reducing measurement bias.
Twice-yearly mandatory testing (regardless of score) signals fitness as a year-round priority, not something to spike for a once-a-year test.
Consequences of PT Test Failure Under DAFMAN 36-2905
Failing the PFRA has serious administrative consequences outlined in DAFMAN 36-2905. A failed test results in placement in the Fitness Improvement Program (FIP) and must be retested within 90 days. Repeated failures can lead to:
The Master Fitness Leader (MFL) Program
One of the most significant new elements in DAFMAN 36-2905 is the Master Fitness Leader (MFL) program, a formal career field (3FI) established to professionalize PT test administration. MFLs:
Complete a two-week formal school to certify as an MFL before administering tests.
Are the primary authority for certifying PFRA scores at the unit level.
Serve as unit fitness advocates, coaches, and physical training leaders.
Manage fitness records and Fitness Improvement Program (FIP) documentation.
Related Articles — USAF PT Reference Guides
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