West Point is the only Service Academy that requires you to video a CFA event . . .
One additional piece of 'equipment' is required if you are taking the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA) for the U.S. Military Academy -- a camera!
You may use your cell phone, video camera, or similar device, as a candidate must upload the video file to document two items (i.e., your identification and the event itself) for their CFA.
Let's explore the details . . .
First, note there has been a big change for 2024-25. You are no longer required to record your push-ups. Now, you simply need to record your pull-ups or flexed-arm hang.
Submit your video to USMA Admission through your Second Step Kit (SSK) portal. The video file should begin with you, 'the candidate,' holding a piece of paper with your name and USMA candidate ID number written on it. You may use your driver’s license or school ID for identification.
The video must display your entire body in the frame during the execution of the pull-up or flexed-arm hang event. Plus, the viewer must be able to 'see' your face -- not just the back of your head!
I recommend 'recruiting' someone (other than the CFA evaluator) to record the video for you. Be sure to review the requirements with your 'videographer' well before commencing the CFA. You should run a practice session or two to allow both of you to rehearse the event and then review the 'trial' video files for compliance (well before the day that you run the CFA).
After completing the CFA, you should review the video for compliance before submitting them through the USMA SSK. Recall that your ID and candidate number must be displayed at the beginning of the video, as USMA asks. Note that CFA videos are rejected (along with the exercises) every year for poor execution.
Next, let's review each event that you must video along with some common errors . . .
Flexed-Arm Hang (only for females who cannot accomplish a pull-up)
Review this video from West Point to ensure proper form: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEwaaPiScbA&feature=youtu.be
Main reasons videos are rejected:
Your chin cannot rest on the bar as West Point must be able to see your chin above the bar for seconds to count.
Also, do not swing your legs.
Pull-Ups
Review this video from West Point to ensure proper form: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bB30Abi3dvM&feature=youtu.be
Main reasons videos are rejected:
You must return to a DEAD ARM HANG after each pull-up.
Your chin must go above the bar with jawline parallel to the ground. No 'sky reaching' with your chin (as they will not count).
You must start at a DEAD ARM HANG; you cannot start with your feet on the ground or a platform.
Keep all of these points in mind as you prepare for the CFA and the recording your video for West Point. Review and practice with the person who will record the video for you. Don't forget to have your Candidate ID written legibly on a card along with your official identification, such as a driver's license or school ID.
Now, you are ready to max (and document your success on) the CFA!
[ I would welcome a chance to discuss details with you. I offer coaching services to pace and prepare you (and your parents!) for the entire Academy application process . . . including preparing for the CFA and your videos for West Point! Contact me at chris@cbbrechin.com, 503.515.7406 or use my contact form on this website. ]
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