What are the U.S. Army body fat standards?

Army body fat standards vary by age and gender. For example, male soldiers aged 17–20 must be at or below 20%, while males aged 40+ are allowed up to 26%. Female standards range from 30% (17–20 years) to 36% (40+ years). Failing the tape test leads to entry into the Army Body Composition Program.

What measurements are needed for the Army tape test?

For males, the test requires neck and waist circumference measurements. For females, neck, waist, and hip circumferences are required. Measurements are taken at specific anatomical landmarks according to AR 600-9 guidelines.

How accurate is the Army tape test method?

The Army tape test has a measurement error of approximately ±3–4% compared to reference methods like DEXA. It tends to overestimate body fat in lean, muscular individuals. Despite its limitations, it is the official method used by all U.S. Army personnel.

Army Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat using the U.S. Army tape test method (AR 600-9).

Geslacht

Eenheden

Leeftijd

Height (in)

Waist (in)

Neck (in)

Over

This calculator uses the official U.S. Army body fat estimation method defined in AR 600-9. It applies circumference measurements and logarithmic formulas to estimate body fat percentage and checks the result against age- and gender-specific Army standards.

Hoe te gebruiken

Select your gender and enter your age.
Measure height, waist (at navel for men, narrowest point for women), neck, and hip (women only).
Click Calculate to see your estimated body fat and whether you meet Army standards.

Functies

Official AR 600-9 formula

The same method used by the U.S. Army for body composition screening.

Pass/fail indicator

Instantly see if you meet Army body fat standards for your age group.

Age-group maximums

Standards adjust for 17-20, 21-27, 28-39, and 40+ age brackets.

Inches & cm support

Enter measurements in your preferred units.

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Army Body Fat Calculator

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Hoe te gebruiken

Functies

Veelgestelde vragen

Where should I measure my waist for the Army tape test?

What are the Army body fat limits?

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Army Body Fat Calculator

Over

Hoe te gebruiken

Functies

Veelgestelde vragen

Where should I measure my waist for the Army tape test?

What are the Army body fat limits?

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