Calculate Body Composition for Military Standards
Calculate your body fat percentage using U.S. Army standards and circumference measurements. Our calculator uses official Army regulation AR 600-9 formulas to determine if you meet military body composition requirements.
This calculator uses the U.S. Army body fat calculation method to estimate your body fat percentage. Enter your measurements accurately for the best results.
For a comprehensive assessment of your military fitness, also check out our ACFT Calculator, which helps you prepare for the Army Combat Fitness Test.
The U.S. Army has specific body fat percentage limits based on age and gender:
| Age Group | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 years | 20% | 30% |
| 21-27 years | 22% | 32% |
| 28-39 years | 24% | 34% |
| 40+ years | 26% | 36% |
Maintaining proper body composition is crucial for military personnel for several reasons:
While maintaining a healthy body composition is important, it's just one aspect of overall military fitness. To ensure you're fully prepared for the physical demands of military service, it's crucial to also focus on your performance in the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT).
The ACFT consists of six events that test various aspects of physical fitness, including strength, power, speed, and endurance. By combining your body composition goals with ACFT-specific training, you can develop a well-rounded fitness plan that meets all Army standards.
Use our ACFT Calculator to assess your performance on each ACFT event and get personalized recommendations for improvement.
The U.S. Army uses circumference-based measurements to estimate body fat. Maximum allowable body fat: Males ages 17-20: 20%, ages 21-27: 22%, ages 28-39: 24%, ages 40+: 26%. Females ages 17-20: 30%, ages 21-27: 32%, ages 28-39: 34%, ages 40+: 36%. Exceeding these standards may affect military service.
For males: measure neck and abdomen (at navel level). For females: measure neck, waist (narrowest point), and hips (widest point). All measurements should be in inches or centimeters. Take measurements while standing, exhaling normally, and without compressing skin.
To meet Army body composition standards: combine cardiovascular exercise with strength training, follow proper nutrition guidelines, maintain consistent physical activity, monitor progress monthly, and consult with Army fitness professionals. Body composition is assessed semi-annually for active duty soldiers.
