What is the purpose of fitness assessments like the CFT in the Marine Corps?

The purpose of fitness assessments like the Combat Fitness Test (CFT) in the Marine Corps is primarily to evaluate physical readiness. This assessment is designed to ensure that Marines are fit for the physical demands of their roles, capable of performing the rigorous tasks required in combat situations, and able to maintain the physical endurance to meet operational needs.

By focusing on physical readiness, the CFT measures key components of fitness, including strength, endurance, and agility. This helps identify areas where individual Marines may need improvement, ensuring that all service members can effectively contribute to their units and overall mission success.

While mental health, deployment preparation, and measurements of height and weight are important considerations within the Marine Corps, they do not directly reflect the primary goal of the CFT, which is to ensure that every Marine meets the required physical standards for their duties.