Fitness Tests of the Spetsnaz: Elite Russian FSB

The Alpha Group - Спецназ ФСБ "Альфа," operating under the Federal Security Service (FSB) Special Purpose Center, stands as a premier special forces unit in Russia. Renowned for its expertise in counterterrorism, hostage rescue, covert operations, and more, the Alpha Group serves as an extended arm of the police when necessary.

Establishment:

• Founded in 1974.
• Integrated into the FSB in 1998.

Motto:

"Победить и вернуться" (Translation: "Win and come back")

Recruitment Criteria:

• Minimum height requirement: 175 cm (5ft 9).
• Exceptions for exceptional candidates.
• Age limit: Candidates under 28 years during the Selection Phase. Combat-experienced individuals may receive exceptions.

Service Commitment: Candidates typically enlist for a minimum of 5 years, with many opting for longer service.

Physical Fitness Standards (P.F.T.) - Alpha Group:

1. 1. 3000 Meter Run

      • Pass: 10:30 min
      • Good: 10:00 min
      • Great: 9:45 min
      • Elite: 9:30 min
        
        

   2. 100 Meter Run

      • Pass: 12.7 sec
      • Good: 12.0 sec
      • Great: 11.5 sec
      • Elite: 11.0 sec
        
        

   3. 10x10 M Suicides

      • Pass: 25:00 sec
      • Good: 24:00 sec
      • Great: 23:00 sec
      • Elite: 22:00 sec
        
        

   4. Pullups

      • Pass: +25 reps
      • Good: +28 reps
      • Great: +30 reps
      • Elite: +32 reps
        
        

   5. Pushups

      • Pass: +90 reps
      • Good: +100 reps
      • Great: +110 reps
      • Elite: +120 reps
        
        

   6. Dips

      • Pass: +30 reps
      • Good: +40 reps
      • Great: +50 reps
      • Elite: +60 reps
        
        

   7. Sit-Ups

      • Pass: +90 reps
      • Good: +100 reps
      • Great: +110 reps
      • Elite: +120 reps
        
        

   8. Benchpress BW

      • Pass: +10 reps
      • Good: +12 reps
      • Great: +15 reps
      • Elite: +18 reps
        
        

   9. Fight (Hand 2 Hand Combat)

      • Pass or Fail
        
        

Pre-Selection - Alpha Group Spetsnaz:

• Physical fitness standards on day one, followed by further tests on the next day.
• Key requirement: Completing the 3000-meter run within 10:30 min.

Additional tests include a suicide run, a 100-meter sprint, pullups, pushups, dips, sit-ups, bench press, and hand-to-hand combat

Alpha Group Spetsnaz Workout:

• 10 rounds of continuous exercises, including pushups, situps, half burpees, and burpees, with no rest between each set.

Selection Process:

• Candidates from specialised units may need to prove shooting or swimming skills.
• Mental evaluation includes interviews, lie-detector tests, and questioning of family members.
• Selected candidates undergo an Airborne Course and a Mountaineering Course.
• A crucial question revolves around the willingness to sacrifice one's life to save another.
• Specialised training, lasting up to a year, is followed by three years of close supervision.

Characteristics of an Alpha Group Spetsnaz Operator:

• Quick decision-making, dedication, courage, high intelligence, and excellent analytical skills are vital.
• Emphasis on teamwork and readiness to assist in any situation.

Alpha Group Spetsnaz Operator - Facts:

• In 2011, Alpha Group achieved international acclaim by winning the "Super SWAT International Competition."
• Notably, two women have previously served in the unit.
• Alpha Spetsnaz Operators are recognized for their fearlessness, even fighting without bulletproof vests in certain situations.