Army Changes Physical Test To Recruit More Women

Local Army recruiting offices will begin a new set of gymnastic tests this summer to determine if a recruit can handle a physically demanding position.

The new tests come as the Pentagon opens all combat posts to women, a process that involves setting physical standards for every job that both men and women must meet.

According to Army leaders, they  will evaluate all recruits and judge their core strength and endurance. If they fail to perform well, they could be placed in an office position.

Defense Secretary Ash Carter's December announcement led the Army to step up its effort to increase female recruiters to better target women.

The goal will be to get at least one woman at each of the Army's recruiting centers across the country over the next three years.

Brig. Gen. Donna Martin, deputy commander of Army Recruiting Command, said that despite these efforts, there may not be a flood of women rushing to compete for combat jobs. But she said more job options could lead to an eventual increase in women enlistments.

"I think it's all about awareness — about a choice," Martin said. "It's not forcing any women to go into combat arms. It's about making them aware that this is a choice."

Carter and other military leaders have stressed the physical standards for the jobs will not be lowered in order to allow more women to qualify.