About the Strength Component
The Strength component is worth up to 15 points. Airmen choose between standard push-ups (1 minute) or hand-release push-ups (2 minutes). Medical exemptions grant full 15 points.
Minimum to pass: At least 9 points (60% of 15) on this component, regardless of overall composite score.
Standard Push-Ups (1 Minute) — Male
| Age Group | Min Reps (9 pts) | Max Reps (15 pts) |
|---|---|---|
| < 25 | 30 | 67 |
| 25–29 | 27 | 62 |
| 30–34 | 24 | 57 |
| 35–39 | 21 | 52 |
| 40–44 | 18 | 47 |
| 45–49 | 16 | 44 |
| 50–54 | 14 | 41 |
| 55–59 | 13 | 40 |
| 60+ | 12 | 38 |
Standard Push-Ups (1 Minute) — Female
| Age Group | Min Reps (9 pts) | Max Reps (15 pts) |
|---|---|---|
| < 25 | 15 | 50 |
| 25–29 | 13 | 46 |
| 30–34 | 11 | 42 |
| 35–39 | 9 | 38 |
| 40–44 | 8 | 35 |
| 45–49 | 6 | 33 |
| 50–54 | 5 | 31 |
| 55–59 | 4 | 30 |
| 60+ | 3 | 28 |
Tips to Increase Push-Up Count
Daily Volume
Do multiple sets throughout the day, stopping 2–3 reps short of failure. Volume builds strength.
Grease the Groove
Every time you pass a doorway, do 10 perfect push-ups. Frequency drives adaptation.
Perfect Form
Keep a rigid plank — no sagging hips. Reps with bad form don't count on test day.
Progressive Overload
Add 2–3 reps per set each week. Track your max every Sunday and target 10% monthly gains.
Related Articles — USAF PT Reference Guides
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