Combat Fitness Test Monitor and USMC CFT Practice Exam
questions and correct answers– Updated 2026 (Graded A+)
instant download pdf
Subject: Marine Corps Physical Fitness and Readiness
Subtopic: Administration, Risk Management, and Equipment Requirements
Question 1: During the setup and execution of the Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test (CFT),
the primary monitor must assist in the Risk Management (RM) process. Which of the
following correctly outlines the sequential steps a CFT monitor must perform to support the
RM framework?
A) Identifying hazards, assessing risks, determining critical risks, implementing controls, and
supervising participants.
B) Establishing rules, selecting venues, evaluating fitness, administering scores, and
documenting deviations.
C) Testing equipment, briefing commanders, running rehearsals, recording times, and
conducting medical evals.
D) Checking uniforms, calibrating scales, marking courses, monitoring weather, and signing
worksheets.
Correct Answer: A - Identifying hazards, assessing risks, determining critical risks,
implementing controls, and supervising participants
Rationale: The Marine Corps risk management process follows five definitive steps
implemented by the CFT monitor to ensure participant safety. The monitor is responsible for
identifying field hazards, assessing their potential risks, determining which risks take priority,
implementing structural or procedural controls, and continuously supervising the execution
of the events. Options B, C, and D represent general administrative tasks but do not
accurately depict the formalized operational risk management steps required by Marine
Corps directives.
Question 2: An expert CFT monitor is gathering the required administrative and safety gear
before executing a unit-wide evaluation. According to standard Marine Corps training
directives, which explicit set of gear is mandatory for establishing a baseline certified testing
environment?
A) Calibrated scale, dummy grenades, and a measuring tape.
B) Chalk lines, pull-up bars, and a whistle.
C) Medicine balls, cones, and an electronic timer.
,D) Sound level meters, weight lifting belts, and heart rate bands.
Correct Answer: A - Calibrated scale, dummy grenades, and a measuring tape
Rationale: Marine Corps CFT directives specify that a certified monitor must have access to a
calibrated scale for weigh-ins, standardized dummy grenades for the throwing portion of the
Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) event, and a measuring tape to properly lay out the course
components. Other options list items that are either optional, used for the Physical Fitness
Test (PFT) rather than the CFT, or not required by official regulations.
Question 3: When selecting a physical venue for the Movement to Contact (MTC) event,
what are the minimum geographical and surface terrain requirements that the CFT monitor
must ensure are satisfied?
A) A reasonable level area featuring few to no obstacles.
B) A perfectly flat rubberized running track with a maximum 1% grade incline.
C) An asphalt surface that is completely straight with no turns allowed.
D) A concrete or turf field measuring exactly 100 meters by 50 meters.
Correct Answer: A - A reasonable level area featuring few to no obstacles
Rationale: Official CFT monitor guidelines dictate that the selection of an indoor or outdoor
location for the MTC must meet the baseline threshold of being reasonably level and free of
major obstacles or debris to prevent tripping hazards during the 880-yard run. A rubberized
track or perfectly flat turf is ideal but not a minimum mandatory requirement, as out-and-
back routes or dirt courses are fully permissible if level.
Question 4: A CFT monitor configures the 880-yard Movement to Contact (MTC) event as an
out-and-back route where the start line and the finish line share the exact same
geographical coordinate. What is the minimum number of monitors required to legally
oversee this specific course configuration?
A) 3.
B) 1
C) 2
D) 4
Correct Answer: A - 3
Rationale: For an out-and-back MTC route where the start and finish lines are identical, a
minimum of three monitors is required to maintain proper visual control, manage
intermediate turnarounds, and ensure accurate timekeeping and compliance throughout the
,run. Using fewer than three monitors fails to provide adequate oversight at the turning point
and the main line simultaneously.
Question 5: During a high-temperature morning execution of the Combat Fitness Test,
several Marines request to remove their uniform blouses for the Movement to Contact
(MTC) event. Under what explicit condition can the CFT monitor authorize the removal of
uniform blouses?
A) Only with the commander's authorization.
B) Automatically if the ambient temperature exceeds 85°F.
C) If the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index indicates a black flag condition.
D) At the sole personal discretion of the primary CFT monitor.
Correct Answer: A - Only with the commander's authorization
Rationale: The authorized uniform for the CFT is the Marine Pattern (MARPAT) utility uniform
with boots. While the standard uniform configuration includes the blouse, it may be removed
for individual events only if explicit authorization is granted by the unit commander. The
monitor does not possess independent authority to permanently alter uniform regulations
without command approval.
Subtopic: Event Execution and Technique Validation
Question 6: While preparing the logistics for the Ammunition Lift (AL) event, the monitor
must inspect the physical assets to ensure they conform to Marine Corps technical
standards. Which of the following represents an absolute equipment requirement for the
ammunition cans?
A) Use M2A1 5.56mm cans only, ensure contents do not move excessively, and apply grip
tape to the sides.
B) Use standard M19A1 7.62mm cans, fill them with loose playground sand, and leave the
metal bare.
C) Use any commercial utility container weighing exactly 30 pounds with smooth plastic
handles.
D) Use heavy-duty steel crates wrapped in high-density foam padding to protect hands.
Correct Answer: A - Use M2A1 5.56mm cans only, ensure contents do not move
excessively, and apply grip tape to the sides
Rationale: To standardize the event, the Marine Corps requires the use of official M2A1
5.56mm ammunition cans packed tightly so the contents do not slide around or destabilize
the Marine. Additionally, grip tape must be applied to the sides of the metal can to facilitate
a secure hold and reduce slipping during the intensive two-minute window.
, Question 7: A monitor is delivering a safety brief prior to commencing the Ammunition Lift
(AL) event. Based on historical unit data and psychometric analysis of injury patterns during
this specific test, which common injuries must the monitor explicitly warn the participants
about?
A) Chipped teeth, black eyes, and broken noses.
B) Torn ACLs, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints.
C) Rotator cuff tears, wrist fractures, and dislocated elbows.
D) Heat stroke, lower back herniations, and abdominal cramps.
Correct Answer: A - Chipped teeth, black eyes, and broken noses
Rationale: Due to the high velocity and repetitive nature of pressing a 30-pound metal can
directly overhead from shoulder height for two minutes, fatigue frequently causes the can to
track too close to the face. This mechanical breakdown makes chipped teeth, black eyes, and
broken noses the most common acute impact injuries observed during this event if proper
spacing is not maintained.
Question 8: To observe a Marine's technique accurately and ensure absolute compliance
with locking out the elbows at the top of each repetition during the Ammunition Lift (AL)
event, where should the counting Marine or monitor stand relative to the participant?
A) Stand to the side at a 90-degree angle from the lifting Marine.
B) Stand directly in front facing the Marine face-to-face.
C) Stand directly behind the Marine to monitor spinal extension.
D) Kneel on the deck directly below the trajectory of the ammunition can.
Correct Answer: A - Stand to the side at a 90-degree angle from the lifting Marine
Rationale: Standing at a 90-degree angle to the side of the lifting Marine provides the
cleanest line of sight to evaluate whether the can fully clears the chin, passes crown height,
and achieves a complete, true extension and lockout of the elbow joints without vertical
cheating or short-changing the repetition. Standing directly in front or behind obscures the
alignment of the elbows and arms.
Question 9: During the Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) event, a Marine misjudges their
distance and throws the dummy grenade completely outside of the designated target zone.
What structural penalty or procedural modification must be applied to the final performance
metrics?
A) A 5-second time penalty is added to the total execution time.
B) The Marine is disqualified and receives an automatic score of zero for the event.
questions and correct answers– Updated 2026 (Graded A+)
instant download pdf
Subject: Marine Corps Physical Fitness and Readiness
Subtopic: Administration, Risk Management, and Equipment Requirements
Question 1: During the setup and execution of the Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test (CFT),
the primary monitor must assist in the Risk Management (RM) process. Which of the
following correctly outlines the sequential steps a CFT monitor must perform to support the
RM framework?
A) Identifying hazards, assessing risks, determining critical risks, implementing controls, and
supervising participants.
B) Establishing rules, selecting venues, evaluating fitness, administering scores, and
documenting deviations.
C) Testing equipment, briefing commanders, running rehearsals, recording times, and
conducting medical evals.
D) Checking uniforms, calibrating scales, marking courses, monitoring weather, and signing
worksheets.
Correct Answer: A - Identifying hazards, assessing risks, determining critical risks,
implementing controls, and supervising participants
Rationale: The Marine Corps risk management process follows five definitive steps
implemented by the CFT monitor to ensure participant safety. The monitor is responsible for
identifying field hazards, assessing their potential risks, determining which risks take priority,
implementing structural or procedural controls, and continuously supervising the execution
of the events. Options B, C, and D represent general administrative tasks but do not
accurately depict the formalized operational risk management steps required by Marine
Corps directives.
Question 2: An expert CFT monitor is gathering the required administrative and safety gear
before executing a unit-wide evaluation. According to standard Marine Corps training
directives, which explicit set of gear is mandatory for establishing a baseline certified testing
environment?
A) Calibrated scale, dummy grenades, and a measuring tape.
B) Chalk lines, pull-up bars, and a whistle.
C) Medicine balls, cones, and an electronic timer.
,D) Sound level meters, weight lifting belts, and heart rate bands.
Correct Answer: A - Calibrated scale, dummy grenades, and a measuring tape
Rationale: Marine Corps CFT directives specify that a certified monitor must have access to a
calibrated scale for weigh-ins, standardized dummy grenades for the throwing portion of the
Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) event, and a measuring tape to properly lay out the course
components. Other options list items that are either optional, used for the Physical Fitness
Test (PFT) rather than the CFT, or not required by official regulations.
Question 3: When selecting a physical venue for the Movement to Contact (MTC) event,
what are the minimum geographical and surface terrain requirements that the CFT monitor
must ensure are satisfied?
A) A reasonable level area featuring few to no obstacles.
B) A perfectly flat rubberized running track with a maximum 1% grade incline.
C) An asphalt surface that is completely straight with no turns allowed.
D) A concrete or turf field measuring exactly 100 meters by 50 meters.
Correct Answer: A - A reasonable level area featuring few to no obstacles
Rationale: Official CFT monitor guidelines dictate that the selection of an indoor or outdoor
location for the MTC must meet the baseline threshold of being reasonably level and free of
major obstacles or debris to prevent tripping hazards during the 880-yard run. A rubberized
track or perfectly flat turf is ideal but not a minimum mandatory requirement, as out-and-
back routes or dirt courses are fully permissible if level.
Question 4: A CFT monitor configures the 880-yard Movement to Contact (MTC) event as an
out-and-back route where the start line and the finish line share the exact same
geographical coordinate. What is the minimum number of monitors required to legally
oversee this specific course configuration?
A) 3.
B) 1
C) 2
D) 4
Correct Answer: A - 3
Rationale: For an out-and-back MTC route where the start and finish lines are identical, a
minimum of three monitors is required to maintain proper visual control, manage
intermediate turnarounds, and ensure accurate timekeeping and compliance throughout the
,run. Using fewer than three monitors fails to provide adequate oversight at the turning point
and the main line simultaneously.
Question 5: During a high-temperature morning execution of the Combat Fitness Test,
several Marines request to remove their uniform blouses for the Movement to Contact
(MTC) event. Under what explicit condition can the CFT monitor authorize the removal of
uniform blouses?
A) Only with the commander's authorization.
B) Automatically if the ambient temperature exceeds 85°F.
C) If the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index indicates a black flag condition.
D) At the sole personal discretion of the primary CFT monitor.
Correct Answer: A - Only with the commander's authorization
Rationale: The authorized uniform for the CFT is the Marine Pattern (MARPAT) utility uniform
with boots. While the standard uniform configuration includes the blouse, it may be removed
for individual events only if explicit authorization is granted by the unit commander. The
monitor does not possess independent authority to permanently alter uniform regulations
without command approval.
Subtopic: Event Execution and Technique Validation
Question 6: While preparing the logistics for the Ammunition Lift (AL) event, the monitor
must inspect the physical assets to ensure they conform to Marine Corps technical
standards. Which of the following represents an absolute equipment requirement for the
ammunition cans?
A) Use M2A1 5.56mm cans only, ensure contents do not move excessively, and apply grip
tape to the sides.
B) Use standard M19A1 7.62mm cans, fill them with loose playground sand, and leave the
metal bare.
C) Use any commercial utility container weighing exactly 30 pounds with smooth plastic
handles.
D) Use heavy-duty steel crates wrapped in high-density foam padding to protect hands.
Correct Answer: A - Use M2A1 5.56mm cans only, ensure contents do not move
excessively, and apply grip tape to the sides
Rationale: To standardize the event, the Marine Corps requires the use of official M2A1
5.56mm ammunition cans packed tightly so the contents do not slide around or destabilize
the Marine. Additionally, grip tape must be applied to the sides of the metal can to facilitate
a secure hold and reduce slipping during the intensive two-minute window.
, Question 7: A monitor is delivering a safety brief prior to commencing the Ammunition Lift
(AL) event. Based on historical unit data and psychometric analysis of injury patterns during
this specific test, which common injuries must the monitor explicitly warn the participants
about?
A) Chipped teeth, black eyes, and broken noses.
B) Torn ACLs, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints.
C) Rotator cuff tears, wrist fractures, and dislocated elbows.
D) Heat stroke, lower back herniations, and abdominal cramps.
Correct Answer: A - Chipped teeth, black eyes, and broken noses
Rationale: Due to the high velocity and repetitive nature of pressing a 30-pound metal can
directly overhead from shoulder height for two minutes, fatigue frequently causes the can to
track too close to the face. This mechanical breakdown makes chipped teeth, black eyes, and
broken noses the most common acute impact injuries observed during this event if proper
spacing is not maintained.
Question 8: To observe a Marine's technique accurately and ensure absolute compliance
with locking out the elbows at the top of each repetition during the Ammunition Lift (AL)
event, where should the counting Marine or monitor stand relative to the participant?
A) Stand to the side at a 90-degree angle from the lifting Marine.
B) Stand directly in front facing the Marine face-to-face.
C) Stand directly behind the Marine to monitor spinal extension.
D) Kneel on the deck directly below the trajectory of the ammunition can.
Correct Answer: A - Stand to the side at a 90-degree angle from the lifting Marine
Rationale: Standing at a 90-degree angle to the side of the lifting Marine provides the
cleanest line of sight to evaluate whether the can fully clears the chin, passes crown height,
and achieves a complete, true extension and lockout of the elbow joints without vertical
cheating or short-changing the repetition. Standing directly in front or behind obscures the
alignment of the elbows and arms.
Question 9: During the Maneuver Under Fire (MANUF) event, a Marine misjudges their
distance and throws the dummy grenade completely outside of the designated target zone.
What structural penalty or procedural modification must be applied to the final performance
metrics?
A) A 5-second time penalty is added to the total execution time.
B) The Marine is disqualified and receives an automatic score of zero for the event.
