Quick Answer: How Army Height and Weight Standards Work
Under Army Regulation 600-9 (AR 600-9), soldiers must meet screening table weights based on height and age. For example, a 21–27-year-old male at 5'10" (70 inches) has a maximum screening weight of 183 lbs. If a soldier weighs more than 183 lbs, they undergo the DoD Circumference Tape Test, which allows up to 22% body fat for that age bracket.
The AR 600-9 Two-Step Screening Pipeline
Weighed in PT uniform without shoes. If scale weight ≤ maximum allowable screening weight, soldier passes immediately.
If over screening weight, tape circumference is measured. If body fat % ≤ age group ceiling (20%–26% male, 30%–36% female), soldier passes.
Soldiers scoring ≥540 points on the ACFT (with ≥80 points per event) are 100% exempt from tape tests regardless of weight.
Maximum Allowable Body Fat % by Age (AR 600-9)
| Age Bracket | Male Maximum Body Fat % | Female Maximum Body Fat % |
|---|---|---|
| 17 – 20 Years Old | 20% Maximum | 30% Maximum |
| 21 – 27 Years Old | 22% Maximum | 32% Maximum |
| 28 – 39 Years Old | 24% Maximum | 34% Maximum |
| 40 Years and Older | 26% Maximum | 36% Maximum |
