U.S. Army Body Fat Calculator
Calculate body fat percentage based on the official U.S. military standards (AR 600-9).
Calculate Your Army Body Fat
What is the Army Body Fat Test?
The U.S. Army uses a specific tape measure method to estimate a soldier's body fat percentage. This test, often referred to as the **"tape test,"** is part of the Army's Physical Readiness Test (APRT) and is used to ensure soldiers maintain a healthy body composition that supports physical performance and readiness. The formula for this calculator is based on official military standards from **Army Regulation 600-9**.
The calculation requires accurate measurements of height, neck circumference, and waist circumference. For females, a hip measurement is also included. Our **free online Army body fat calculator** is a simple tool to check if you are within the military's body fat limits.
Why Use the Army Body Fat Calculator?
- To check if you meet military enlistment or retention standards.
- To track your body composition progress as you prepare for a military career.
- To gain a better understanding of how your body composition aligns with a specific fitness model.
Trusted Sources: For more expert and official information on military fitness standards and body composition, you can visit authoritative sources:
Frequently Asked Questions
The Army body fat test, also known as the "tape test," uses a standard tape measure to take circumference measurements of the neck and abdomen for males, and neck, waist, and hips for females. These measurements, along with height, are then put into a specific formula to calculate an estimated body fat percentage.
Body fat standards vary based on age and gender. For males, the maximum standards range from 20% to 26% depending on age. For females, the maximum standards range from 30% to 36%. The exact standards are outlined in Army Regulation 600-9. Meeting these standards is a requirement for military service.
The Army uses the tape test because it provides a better estimation of body composition than BMI, especially for muscular individuals. BMI only considers weight relative to height, while the tape test attempts to account for fat distribution and muscle mass. This is a more accurate way to measure physical readiness for the demands of military service.