Army Body Fat Calculator
Calculate body fat percentage using the US Army method with circumference measurements. Check if you meet US Army body fat standards for your age and sex.
Part of our Health Calculators collection.
Army Body Fat Calculator
Free online calculator
Measure below the larynx (Adam's apple)
Males: at navel. Females: at narrowest point.
At the widest point
How to Use This Calculator
- 1
Select your sex and enter your age.
- 2
Measure and enter height, neck, and waist circumferences in inches.
- 3
Women: also enter hip circumference.
- 4
See your body fat percentage and whether you meet Army standards for your age group.
US Army Body Fat Formula
Male: % BF = 86.010 × log10(waist − neck) − 70.041 × log10(height) + 36.76 Female: % BF = 163.205 × log10(waist + hip − neck) − 97.684 × log10(height) − 78.387 US Army maximum body fat standards: Men: Age 17–20: 20% | 21–27: 22% | 28–39: 24% | 40+: 26% Women: Age 17–20: 30% | 21–27: 32% | 28–39: 34% | 40+: 36%
Example Calculation
Example: 25-year-old male, 5'10", 15.5" neck, 33" waist
Inputs
sex: maleage: 25heightIn: 70neckIn: 15.5waistIn: 33hipIn: 38
Result
~17.8% body fat — Meets Army standard (max 22% for age 21–27)
17.8% is well below the 22% maximum for men aged 21–27. Passes the Army tape test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Army body fat test accurate?
The Army tape method is accurate within about 3–4% for most people. It tends to overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate in some body shapes. The Army uses it for its simplicity and low cost.
What happens if you fail the Army body fat test?
Soldiers who exceed the body fat standard are flagged and placed on a weight control program. Repeated failures can result in separation from the military.
Can I appeal a tape test result?
Yes. Soldiers who believe their muscular build is causing an inaccurate reading can request a hydrostatic weighing or DEXA scan as an alternative measurement method at some installations.