‘Too early to know’ how mandated studies will impact ACFT implementation January 7 New West Point Cadets practice their leg tucks during their first Army Combat Fitness Test at West Point, N.Y., July 14, 2020. (Michelle Eberhart/Army) The new Army Combat Fitness Test officially became the service’s test of record in October, but lawmakers have ordered a pause on further implementation pending an independent study to determine how it will impact deployed soldiers, recruiting and retention. Regardless, soldiers are still expected to continue preparing for the six-event ACFT as the Army collects data from practice tests across the force, according to Sgt. 1st Class Will Reinier, a spokesman for Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston.