IDF sets fitness targets for reservists: physical tests before every deployment | The new requirements
The IDF has published new physical fitness guidelines for reserve soldiers, requiring basic fitness tests before every deployment, including a 3 km run, pull-ups, parallel bars, shooting under exertion, and a full-gear march. The goal is to improve performance amid increasing service intensity. Soldiers who fail to meet the criteria will receive a personalized training plan.
The IDF has published new physical fitness guidelines for reserve soldiers in a document titled "Guidelines of the Chief Reserve Officer - Fitness Targets for Male and Female Reserve Fighters," signed by the Chief Reserve Officer, Brigadier General Benny Ben Ari. The guidelines, still in the implementation process, require every male and female reservist to undergo pre-deployment training that includes basic fitness tests: a 3 km run in 18 minutes for men and 20 minutes for women, pull-ups (3 reps for men, 3 with a band for women), and parallel bars (5 reps for men, 5 with a band for women). Additionally, soldiers must practice shooting under exertion with a passing score of 70 and complete an operational march with full gear over 8-10 km. They will also be required to participate in an annual race (5 or 10 km) and a sports, fitness, and health day. A pilot in a reserve brigade yielded good results with room for improvement. A professional source noted that the goal is to build a personal improvement plan for those who do not meet the standard, without dismissal.