Army Height and Weight Calculator
US Army Height and Weight Standards — Guide
The US Army uses Army Regulation 600-9 (AR 600-9) to set weight and body composition standards for all active, National Guard, and Reserve soldiers. This calculator estimates whether you meet the screening table weight for your gender, age, and height.
How the Army weight screening works
- Weight check: Your weight is compared to the maximum weight for your height and age group from the screening table.
- Tape test (if over screening weight): Circumference measurements of neck, waist, and hip (women) are taken to calculate body fat %.
- Body fat standard: If body fat is within allowed range, you may still pass even if over screening weight.
Maximum body fat % by age and gender
| Age Group | Male max BF% | Female max BF% |
|---|---|---|
| 17–20 | 20% | 30% |
| 21–27 | 22% | 32% |
| 28–39 | 24% | 34% |
| 40+ | 26% | 36% |
Consequences of failing AR 600-9
- Soldiers who fail are enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP)
- Failure after 6 months may result in adverse action or separation
- Non-compliance can block promotions and reenlistment
Tips to meet Army standards
- Focus on cardiovascular fitness — running, swimming, cycling
- Strength training preserves muscle while reducing fat
- Reduce processed foods, sugars, and excess caloric intake
- Ensure adequate sleep (7–9 hours) — sleep deprivation increases fat storage
References
- Army Regulation 600-9 (AR 600-9) — “The Army Body Composition Program.” Headquarters, Department of the Army, USA. Effective 28 June 2013 (latest revision). Available at: armypubs.army.mil
- United States — applies to all Active Duty, National Guard, and Army Reserve soldiers across all components.
- TRADOC Pamphlet 600-4: “Initial Military Training.” US Army Training and Doctrine Command.
- Friedl KE (2012). “Body Composition and Military Performance—Many Faces of Fitness.” J Strength Cond Res 26(Suppl 2):S87–S100.
