PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT
Three events. Minimum standards. No exceptions. Fail any single event and you are immediately eliminated from ESB testing.
Fail ANY single event = immediate elimination from ESB testing. No retesting. Failed candidates are directed to a separate holding area and processed by the NCOIC/OIC. No candidate who fails any part of the PFA will be allowed to continue.
ADMINISTRATION
Basis: Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT)
Administered per: Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 7-22.01
Updated: June 2022 revision — uses ACFT standards (HRP/SDC/2MR), replacing the pre-2022 APFT standards.
12-MILE FOOT MARCH
Requirement: Candidates must complete a 12-mile foot march to earn the ESB.
Standard: Conducted per ATP 3-21.18 (Foot Marches). Typically must be completed within 3 hours with a minimum 35-pound ruck (dry weight, not including water).
When: Conducted on the final day of testing, after all lane testing and the Final Event.
Note: This is a pass/fail event. Failure to complete the foot march means the candidate does not earn the ESB, even if all other events were passed.
Instructions Read to Candidates
"You are about to take the ESB Physical Fitness Assessment. An assessment that will determine your eligibility to continue ESB Testing. Listen closely to the instructions."
The OIC or NCOIC will read each event's instructions prior to the start. Specific run route instructions may be addressed at the 2MR start point.
Key Notes
- Units can allow candidates to execute the HRP beyond the minimum, or may stop candidates once the minimum is reached.
- Candidates who fail any event must be stopped immediately and directed to the separate holding area.
- Proper controls must be implemented to track candidate progress.
- The ESB TMO will validate the suitability of the host unit's process.
ESB Candidate Tips (E3B Handbook)
From the 2nd Infantry Division E3B Candidate Handbook, September 2022.
PFA is the gateway event. Fail any single event and you are immediately eliminated. There is no retesting. Arrive in peak physical condition — this is not the time to be borderline on any event.
What to bring to ESB testing: The E3B packing list is extensive. Candidates must have all items on Day 1. Missing equipment can result in disqualification before testing even begins.
E3B Packing List — Items Worn
- OCP uniform (w/subdued or IR flag patch)
- ID tags (long and short chain, around neck)
- Gloves, fire retardant or full leather
- Watch (no smart watches with GPS)
- Notebook w/pen or pencil (waterproofed)
- ACH w/cover, camo band, NVG plate
- Eye protection APEL approved (clear and shaded lens)
- IOTV or issued plate carrier with plates (front and back)
- M4 w/magazine, iron sight (optics optional), BFA
- Lensatic compass
- Pro-mask w/2x canisters and carrier
- Protractor (GTA 05-02-012)
- Whistle
- Green chem light
- Red lens flashlight
- Assault pack
- Face paint (brown, green, black)
- Waterproofing material (Ziplock bags, document protectors)
- Knee pads (optional)
- FLC/TAPS with ammo pouches, grenade pouch, utility pouch
- Combat earplugs w/case
- IFAK, hydration system, 1 qt canteen with M50 cap
Packed in Ruck
- MOLLE w/frame
- Poncho and poncho liner
- Camo face paint (brown, green, black)
- Wool cushion sole socks (4 pair)
- Sewing kit
- NVG batteries (4)
- 550 cord (50 feet)
- Wet weather top/bottom
- Waterproof bag
- Weapons cleaning kit (rods, handle, CLP, patches, bore/chamber brush)
- Personal hygiene kit
- Brown T-shirts (3), undergarments (3)
- Towels (brown, hand)
- Combat boots (1 pair)
- Sleep system (thick, thin, bivy cover)
Note: IOTV must be Army-issued. Commercial plate carriers are not authorized. Candidates must have FLC/TAPS available if heat index requires downgrade of IOTV.