GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) – Members of the Marine Corps can expect to see some major changes when it comes to required fitness tests.

Starting the first of the year, all Marines will have the option of doing pulls ups or pushups, instead of the previous pull up’s only standard.

The flexed arm hang for women will also be eliminated from the physical fitness test.

Marines taking the combat fitness test will have to complete more pushups during the maneuver under fire exercise, following the grenade throw.

In a statement from the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Robert Neller says the changes are being implemented to, “Ensure standards are relevant, challenging and also allow for greater distinction between Marines of different fitness levels and age groups.”

Marines who score 285 or higher on both the PFT and CFT will be exempt from height, weight and body composition limits.

Other changes to the body composition program include relaxed weight limits for female Marines and the use of more precise tape-measuring devices, which will take effect immediately.