Army Body Fat Percent Calculator

Army Body Fat Formula:

For Males: \[ \%BF = 86.010 \times \log_{10}(abdomen - neck) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(height) + 36.76 \] For Females: \[ \%BF = 163.205 \times \log_{10}(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684 \times \log_{10}(height) - 78.387 \]

Gender:

Height:

inches

Neck Circumference:

inches

Waist Circumference:

inches

Hip Circumference:

inches

Body Fat Percentage:

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1. What is the Army Body Fat Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates body fat percentage using the U.S. Army's standardized formulas based on circumference measurements.

Purpose: It helps military personnel and applicants determine if they meet the Army's body fat standards for enlistment and retention.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses different formulas for males and females:

For Males: \[ \%BF = 86.010 \times \log_{10}(abdomen - neck) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(height) + 36.76 \]
For Females: \[ \%BF = 163.205 \times \log_{10}(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684 \times \log_{10}(height) - 78.387 \]

Measurement Guidelines:

Height: Without shoes
Neck: Below the larynx, perpendicular to the neck axis
Waist (abdomen): At the navel level for males, narrowest point for females
Hip (females only): Maximum protrusion of the buttocks

3. Army Body Fat Standards

Male Standards: 18-20% max for ages 17-20, up to 26% for ages 40+
Female Standards: 28-30% max for ages 17-20, up to 36% for ages 40+

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Measure in inches
Use a flexible, non-stretch tape measure
Take measurements in normal breathing mode
For females, hip measurement is required

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does the Army use this method?
A: It's a practical field method that correlates well with more accurate techniques like hydrostatic weighing.

Q2: How accurate is this calculator?
A: Within ±3% of hydrostatic weighing when measurements are taken properly.

Q3: What if I exceed the standards?
A: You may need to enter a weight control program or face administrative action.

Q4: Can I use this for other military branches?
A: Each branch has slightly different standards, but the calculation method is similar.

Q5: How often should I check my body fat?
A: Monthly if close to standards, quarterly otherwise.