Understanding and meeting the U.S. Army's height and weight standards is a critical component of military readiness and overall soldier health. These standards, primarily outlined in Army Regulation (AR) 600-9, "The Army Body Composition Program," ensure that soldiers maintain a healthy body composition conducive to performing physical tasks and reducing health risks.
The Army's program aims to promote physical fitness, health, and professional appearance. It's not just about looking good; it's about ensuring soldiers can endure the physical demands of combat and daily duties without being unduly burdened by excess body fat or being underweight to a detrimental degree.
How Army Height and Weight Standards Work
The initial screening for body composition involves a simple height and weight check. For a given height and gender, there is a maximum allowable weight. If a soldier's weight exceeds this maximum, they are then subjected to a body fat assessment using circumference measurements (neck, waist, and hip for females; neck and waist for males). If the body fat percentage (BFP) exceeds the Army's maximum allowable BFP (e.g., 20% for males 17-20, 22% for males 21-27; 30% for females 17-20, 32% for females 21-27), the soldier is then flagged and entered into the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP).
This calculator provides an initial assessment based on the maximum allowable weight for your height and gender, using general standards for adult soldiers. Please note that actual AR 600-9 tables vary slightly by age group, and this calculator provides a simplified guide based on common standards for adults (e.g., 21-27 age group).
Using the Army Height and Weight Calculator
To use the calculator, simply enter your height in inches, your weight in pounds, and select your gender. The calculator will then tell you if your weight is within the general maximum allowable limits for your height and gender according to Army standards.
Example Scenarios:
- Example 1 (Male, Within Standards): A 70-inch (5'10") male weighing 185 lbs. The calculator would show that he is within the maximum allowable weight for his height and gender.
- Example 2 (Female, Exceeds Maximum Weight): A 65-inch (5'5″) female weighing 170 lbs. The calculator would indicate that she exceeds the maximum allowable weight for her height and gender, suggesting a body fat assessment would be required.
- Example 3 (Male, Exceeds Maximum Weight): A 68-inch (5'8″) male weighing 200 lbs. The calculator would show he exceeds the maximum allowable weight, prompting a body fat assessment.
Remember, this calculator is a preliminary tool. If you are considering joining the Army or are a current soldier, always refer to the official AR 600-9 and consult with your recruiter or unit leadership for precise and up-to-date information.
Army Height & Weight Standards Calculator
Enter your height, weight, and gender to see if you meet general Army standards.
Male Female