Army Fitness Calculator Body Fat

Army Body Fat Calculator

Use this calculator to estimate your body fat percentage based on the U.S. Army's tape test method. This method uses specific body measurements to determine body composition.

Male Female

document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { var genderSelect = document.getElementById('gender'); var hipField = document.getElementById('hipMeasurementField'); // Initial state based on default gender if (genderSelect.value === 'male') { hipField.style.display = 'none'; } else { hipField.style.display = 'block'; } genderSelect.addEventListener('change', function() { if (genderSelect.value === 'male') { hipField.style.display = 'none'; } else { hipField.style.display = 'block'; } }); }); function calculateBodyFat() { var gender = document.getElementById('gender').value; var height = parseFloat(document.getElementById('heightInches').value); var neck = parseFloat(document.getElementById('neckCircumference').value); var waist = parseFloat(document.getElementById('waistCircumference').value); var hip = parseFloat(document.getElementById('hipCircumference').value); var resultDiv = document.getElementById('result'); var bodyFatPercentage; // Input validation if (isNaN(height) || height <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid height."; return; } if (isNaN(neck) || neck <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid neck circumference."; return; } if (isNaN(waist) || waist <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid waist circumference."; return; } if (gender === 'female' && (isNaN(hip) || hip <= 0)) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid hip circumference for females."; return; } if (gender === 'male') { var maleMeasurement = waist – neck; if (maleMeasurement <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Waist circumference must be greater than neck circumference for males."; return; } bodyFatPercentage = 86.010 * Math.log10(maleMeasurement) – 70.041 * Math.log10(height) + 36.76; } else { // female var femaleMeasurement = waist + hip – neck; if (femaleMeasurement <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Waist + Hip circumference must be greater than neck circumference for females."; return; } bodyFatPercentage = 163.205 * Math.log10(femaleMeasurement) – 97.684 * Math.log10(height) – 78.387; } if (isNaN(bodyFatPercentage)) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Could not calculate body fat. Please check your inputs."; } else { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Your estimated body fat percentage: " + bodyFatPercentage.toFixed(2) + "%"; } }

Understanding Army Body Fat Standards

The U.S. Army utilizes body fat percentage as a key component of its physical readiness standards, alongside the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). These standards are crucial for ensuring soldiers maintain a healthy body composition, which directly impacts their physical performance, endurance, and overall health, reducing the risk of injuries and chronic diseases.

The Army Tape Test Method

The Army's primary method for estimating body fat percentage is the "tape test." This non-invasive procedure uses specific circumference measurements of the body. The measurements are then plugged into a formula that differs for males and females. This calculator uses the official U.S. Army formulas:

• For Males: Measurements include height, neck circumference, and waist circumference.
• For Females: Measurements include height, neck circumference, waist circumference, and hip circumference.

It's important to note that while the tape test is a practical field method, it is an estimation and may not be as precise as laboratory methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. However, it serves as a consistent and standardized tool across the force.

How to Take Accurate Measurements

For the most accurate results with this calculator, ensure your measurements are taken correctly:

• Height: Measure your height without shoes, standing straight against a wall.
• Neck Circumference: Measure at the point just below the larynx (Adam's apple), perpendicular to the long axis of the neck. Ensure the tape is level and not compressing the skin.
• Waist Circumference (Males): Measure horizontally at the navel (belly button). Ensure the tape is snug but not compressing the skin, and take the measurement at the end of a normal exhalation.
• Waist Circumference (Females): Measure horizontally at the point of minimal abdominal circumference, usually about halfway between the navel and the bottom of the sternum. If this is not the smallest point, measure at the navel. Take the measurement at the end of a normal exhalation.
• Hip Circumference (Females Only): Measure horizontally around the largest protrusion of the gluteal muscles (buttocks), with the feet together.

All measurements should be taken in inches, rounded to the nearest tenth of an inch.

Army Body Fat Standards by Age and Gender (Example Maximums)

The maximum allowable body fat percentage varies by age and gender. Exceeding these limits can lead to enrollment in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP). Here are some example maximums (these can be subject to change by Army regulations):

• Males:
  • 17-20 years: 20%
  • 21-27 years: 22%
  • 28-39 years: 24%
  • 40+ years: 26%
• Females:
  • 17-20 years: 30%
  • 21-27 years: 32%
  • 28-39 years: 34%
  • 40+ years: 36%

Always refer to the latest Army regulations (e.g., AR 600-9) for the most current and official standards.

Using the Calculator

Simply select your gender, enter your height, neck, waist, and (if female) hip measurements in inches. Click "Calculate Body Fat" to get your estimated percentage. Compare your result to the Army's standards to understand your body composition status.

Disclaimer

This calculator provides an estimation of body fat percentage based on the U.S. Army's tape test formulas. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for official Army measurements or professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for accurate assessments and health guidance.