What should be conducted before the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)?

Conducting the preparation drill (PD) before the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) is essential as it serves to warm up the body and prepare the muscles for the physical exertion that follows. The PD includes a series of dynamic exercises designed to increase heart rate, enhance flexibility, and promote blood flow to the muscles, reducing the risk of injury during the APFT.

The PD typically incorporates exercises that focus on the major muscle groups used in the APFT, ensuring that soldiers are physically and mentally prepared for the test. This systematic approach during the warm-up phase not only readies the body for performance but also helps establish a smoother transition into the rigorous demands of the APFT.

The other activities, while beneficial for overall fitness, do not specifically serve the fundamental purpose of a preparatory routine right before the test. Cardio exercises, strength training, and stretching routines are all important components of a comprehensive fitness regimen, but they lack the structured methodology and focus on readiness that the preparation drill provides in relation to the APFT.