Estimate your body fat percentage, check official U.S. Army Body Composition Program (AR 600-9) pass/fail standards, and calculate fat weight loss goals using the updated 1-site abdominal tape test or legacy multi-site formula.
Soldiers who score 540 points or higher on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), with a minimum of 80 points in each event, are granted an official exemption from Army Body Composition Program tape testing and body fat standards under current Army policy.
Current Department of the Army maximum body fat limits by age and gender group:
| Age Bracket | Male Maximum Allowable % | Female Maximum Allowable % | Screening Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 – 20 Years | 20% | 30% | ABCP Tape Test / WHtR <0.55 |
| 21 – 27 Years | 22% | 32% | ABCP Tape Test / WHtR <0.55 |
| 28 – 39 Years | 24% | 34% | ABCP Tape Test / WHtR <0.55 |
| 40+ Years | 26% | 36% | ABCP Tape Test / WHtR <0.55 |
Understanding Army Directive 2023-11, AR 600-9 circumference measurement procedures, and the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP).
On June 12, 2023, the Secretary of the Army issued Army Directive 2023-11, transitioning from multi-site measurements (neck, waist, hips) to a single abdominal circumference measurement at the navel for both male and female soldiers.
The tape must be placed horizontally directly across the center of the navel (belly button). Measurements are taken at the end of a normal expiration, with the tape snug against the skin without indenting soft tissues.
Trained unit tape test personnel must take at least three sequential measurements. Each measurement is recorded to the nearest 0.5 inch (1.25 cm). The three values are then averaged to determine the official recorded circumference.
Key answers about Army physical readiness taping, AR 600-9 regulations, and ACFT exemptions.
This tool provides self-assessment calculations based on U.S. Army AR 600-9 and Army Directive 2023-11 guidelines for training and preparation purposes only. It does not replace an official recorded unit body fat assessment administered by designated Master Fitness Trainers (MFT) or command-appointed testing personnel.