The Physical Test

What the HEFT Measures

The Hazard-Event Fitness Test (HEFT) measures real-world physical readiness — explosive power, balance and stability, functional leg strength, upper body endurance, grip, work capacity, and (at the full level) aerobic capacity and load carriage. Unlike generic fitness tests, the HEFT is designed for people who carry gear, move under load, and need to perform when it matters — whether that means responding to an emergency, keeping up on a long hike, or simply being the person your family can count on.

Three levels: Level 1 is 5 tests in about 15–20 minutes with no equipment. Level 2 adds pull-ups and a dead hang (~25–30 minutes, pull-up bar required). Level 3 is the thorough 9-test version (~45–50 minutes) and adds an aerobic test and a loaded carry — you'll need weights and somewhere to run. Results are age-adjusted and compared against peer benchmarks, and the score shows which single area of training gives you the biggest return. No guesswork, no bro science, just data.

Already know your gear needs? Check out our EDC essentials breakdown, the IFAK breakdown, or take the full Readiness Check.