Combat Controller Physical Ability & Stamina Test

The following Physical Ability and Stamina Test (PAST) is for new accessions for combat controller. “New Accessions” means applicants who take the PAST before completing basic training and Technical School. Individuals who apply for Combat Controller after completing basic training and technical school and prior service applicants are considered “re-trainees,” and do not take the below PAST. Those individuals take the combined Pararescue/Combat Combat Controller PAST for re-trainees, listed in Air Force Instruction 36-2626, Attachment 11.

Combat Controller New Accession PAST Requirements

The CCT PAST must be administered in the order listed below and completed within a three-hour time frame. If a candidate is unable to meet any minimum standard, they have failed the test, and the test will end at that point.

500-Meter Surface Swim

Maximum time is 15:00 minutes. This swim is conducted using any stroke. The maximum time limit is fifteen (15) minutes. This swim must be continuous (non-stop). If a candidate stops anytime during the swim, the test will be stopped and considered a failure for the entire past. Swimsuits and goggles are the only equipment items allowed. After completion of the swim, allow a 10-minute rest before the next event. Candidate should carefully stretch before the calisthenics during this break.

Chin-Ups

A minimum of six chin-ups in one minute is required. Chin-ups are a two count exercise. Starting position is hanging from a bar, palms facing the candidate, with no bend in the elbows. Hand spread is approximately shoulder width. Count one, pull the body up until the chin clears the top of the bar. Count two, return to the starting position. Legs are allowed to bend, but must not be kicked or manipulated to aid upward movement. If the candidate falls off, stops, or releases the bar, the exercise is terminated. Candidates will exercise to muscle failure or time completion. Note: in performing all calisthenics, the exercises proper form must be followed. Deviation from the form to allow an extra repetition is strictly enforced during the training pipeline. A two minute rest period is allowed before the next exercise.

Sit-Ups

A minimum of 50 sit-ups in 2 minutes is required. Sit-ups are a two count exercise. Starting position is back flat on the ground, fingers interlocked behind the head, head off the ground, and knees bent at approximately a 90-degree angle. The feet only are held by another individual during the exercise. Count one, sit up, so the shoulders are directly over the pelvis (hips). Count two, return to the starting position. There is no authorized rest position during this exercise. If the candidate rests, the exercise is terminated. If the candidate's buttocks rises off the ground or his fingers are not interlocked behind his head during a repetition, that repetition is not counted. Candidate will exercise to muscle failure or time completion. Note: in performing all calisthenics, the exercises proper form must be followed. Deviation from the form to allow an extra repetition is strictly enforced during the training pipeline. A two minute rest period is allowed before the next exercise.

Push-Ups

A minimum of 42 push-ups in 2 minutes is required. Push-ups are a two count exercise. Starting position is hands shoulder width apart with arms straight and directly below the chest on the ground. The legs are extended, and the back and legs remain straight. Count one, lower the chest until the elbows are bent at a 90 degree or lower angle. Count two, return to the starting position while maintaining a straight back and legs. The only authorized rest position is the starting position. If the knees touch the ground, the exercise is terminated. The candidate will not raise his buttocks in the air or sag his middle to the ground, or the repetition will not be counted. If a hand or foot is raised from their starting position, the exercise is terminated. Candidate will exercise to muscle failure or to time completion. Note: in performing all calisthenics, the exercises proper form must be followed. Deviation from the form to allow an extra repetition is strictly enforced during the training pipeline. A 10 minute rest period is allowed before the next exercise (Note: Candidates should use this period to stretch before the 1.5-mile run).

1.5 mile Run

The maximum time is 11 minutes, 30 seconds (11:30). Pt clothes and good running shoes are the only required items. This run must be continuous(non-stop). If a candidate stops anytime during the run, the test will be stopped and considered a failure for the entire past. The test should be administered on a measured running track.