US Army Body Composition Standards
The US Army maintains strict body composition standards under Army Regulation 600-9 (The Army Body Composition Program). These standards ensure soldiers are physically fit and deployable. The program uses a two-step screening process: first a weight check against the height/weight table, then a body fat measurement if the soldier exceeds the screening weight.
Army Height Requirements
- Minimum height: 58 inches (4'10")
- Maximum height: 80 inches (6'8")
- Waivers: Possible for special skills or MOS requirements
Screening Table Weight Process
- Soldier is weighed on a calibrated scale in PT uniform (minus shoes)
- Weight is compared to the screening table based on height, age, and gender
- If weight is at or below the table: Soldier passes the weight component
- If weight exceeds the table: Soldier moves to body fat assessment via tape test
Body Fat Assessment (Tape Test)
If a soldier exceeds the screening table weight, body fat percentage is measured using circumference-based measurements. The tape test uses neck and abdomen measurements for men, and neck, waist, and hip measurements for women. Maximum allowable body fat varies by age and gender.