AFT 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL) Standards
One of the top strength events in the Army fitness assessment is the aft 3RM (MDL) deadlift. A measure of how much weight can be lifted safely (3 consecutive reps) by using the trap bar. The event plays a critical role in the Aft MDL standards and will directly affect your MDL grade.
To successfully pass this event, 60 points in the MDL score are required. Typically accomplished at a lift of approximately 140 lbs. A better understanding of the AFT 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift weight rules can help you prepare for an official Army MDL test. It also determines what you will need to perform to pass. To check your expected score more easily, you can also use our Aft Calculator before preparing for the official MDL event.
What is an MDL Assessment?
The MDL or 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift is a strength-based event that is employed within the Army fitness system. It is a measure of the strength of your body when you can lift heavy objects from the ground in a controlled manner. It also assesses control, balance and safe movement under stress. This test primarily assesses:
- Strength in the lower body (legs, hips and glutes)
- Doing core exercises while lifting heavy weights.
- Hand strength and hand control
- General muscular strength in the presence of a load
Official MDL Standards & Scoring
The Aft MDL standards are based on the maximum weight a soldier can lift for 3 correct and continuous repetitions. Here is how MDL is calculated:
- 3 consecutive repetitions of the deadlift movement.
- Only correct or recontrolled reps are counted.
- The heaviest successful weight will be your MDL score.
- The higher the weight performance, the higher the MDL score.
Key Scoring Rules
Your MDL score depends on both lifting performance and proper execution. Here are the official scoring rules used in the AFT 3 repetition maximum deadlift event.
- Passing weight level = minimum score
- Maximum score = the highest possible approved weight
- All lifts are to be controlled and in strict form rules.
- Weight consists of a trap bar (60 lbs) + plates
If you are comparing different AFT events, you may also want to review the AFT Sprint Drag Carry standards to understand how speed, power, and endurance are scored. For core strength and stability, you can also check the AFT Plank Test Standard to see how the plank event is measured in the Army fitness assessment.
Standard MDL Score Ranges
Here are the values that approximate ACFT deadlift weight standards for scoring strength performance in the Army system.
- Weight of light passing level: ~140 lbs
- Moderate performance: ~160–200 lbs
- High performance: ~220–300 lbs
- Maximum score level: up to ~340 lbs
Age Requirements for MDL Scoring
MDL standards are used across various age groups for improved performance measurement for ALL soldiers:
- 17–21 years
- 22–26 years
- 27–31 years
- 32–36 years
- 37+ years
MDL Assessment Gender Standard
There is also a gender-dependent variation in MDL scores to reflect official Army fitness benchmarks:
- Male soldiers are evaluated according to a higher strength-based weight standard.
- Female soldiers do modified ACFT MDL weight limits.
- Both utilise a grading system, but with different levels of weighting
Minimum vs. Maximum MDL Weights
The army MDL test pays for consistency and strength. Each weight gain will add to your total possible score. The following is a quick reference to what each of the scores means:
| Performance Level | MDL Weight Range | MDL Score Impact |
| Minimum Pass | 140 lbs | 60 points |
| Basic Level | 160–180 lbs | 60–65 points |
| Average Performance | 180–220 lbs | 65–75 points |
| High Performance | 220–300 lbs | 75–90 points |
| Maximum Score Level | 340 lbs | 100 points |
Official AFT 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift Rules & Disqualifications
The MDL test has certain rules for safety and fairness. All of the rules ensure that the score of all MDLs will be based on a true measure of strength and ability.
Correct Execution Rules
The rules for the deadlift event at AFT 3RM are given below. All repetitions should be performed in accordance with these criteria to earn a valid 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift score.
- Feet need to remain within the hex bar.
- The back should stay straight during the lift.
- Hips and shoulders should go up simultaneously.
- The bar should hit the ground before each rep.
- Any movement needs to be managed
Disqualification Reasons
These are some of the most common errors that can lead to disqualification during MDL assessment.
- Allowing the weight to drop or crash.
- When lifting, round the back.
- Knees collapsing inward
- No set effort throughout repetitions
- If the 3 valid reps are not done, then the rep is considered invalid.
Test Control Rules
There are specific control rules the Army employs to ensure safety and fairness when conducting the after 3 repetition maximum deadlift test. These are:
- Maximum 2 attempts allowed
- A second test may be given at a lighter weight
- The test can be stopped by the grader for safety reasons.
Conclusion
One of the most important strength exercises in the Army fitness system is the deadlift (3RM) done at the back. It measures your ability to lift heavy weights safely under controlled conditions. A strong AFT 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift score demonstrates strength and ability to manage and prepare for actual military work.