Army Body Fat Calculator

This calculator implements the U.S. Army’s official circumference method (tape test) to estimate body fat percentage according to ALARACT 046/2023 standards. Use this tool to determine if you meet current military body composition requirements.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Select your gender
2. Enter your weight in pounds
3. Measure and enter your waist circumference in inches

Measurement Guidelines

For accurate results, follow these official measurement procedures:

Waist Circumference Measurement:

• Measure the waist circumference against the skin at the navel (belly button)
• Take the measurement at the end of a normal, relaxed breath
• The measuring tape should be snug but not compress the skin
• Round to the nearest half inch

Understanding the Results

The calculator provides:

• Your calculated body fat percentage based on the ALARACT 046/2023 formula
• The maximum allowed percentage for your gender
• A pass/fail status based on current Army standards

Maximum Body Fat Standards

For Males:

• Maximum Allowable Body Fat: 26%

For Females:

• Maximum Allowable Body Fat: 36%

Calculation Method

The Army uses specific formulas based on ALARACT 046/2023:

For Males:

• Body Fat % = -26.97 - (0.12 × weight in pounds) + (1.99 × abdomen circumference in inches)
• Result is rounded to the nearest whole percentage

For Females:

• Body Fat % = -9.15 - (0.015 × weight in pounds) + (1.27 × abdomen circumference in inches)
• Result is rounded to the nearest whole percentage

Example Calculation (Female): For a female soldier weighing 165 pounds with a 30-inch abdomen measurement:

1. -9.15 - (0.015 × 165) + (1.27 × 30)
2. -9.15 - 2.475 + 38.1
3. = 26% Body Fat (26.475% rounded to nearest whole percentage)

Example Calculation (Male): For a male soldier weighing 210 pounds with a 35-inch abdomen measurement:

1. -26.97 - (0.12 × 210) + (1.99 × 35)
2. -26.97 - 25.2 + 69.65
3. = 17% Body Fat (17.48% rounded to nearest whole percentage)

Important Notes

1. This calculator implements the official U.S. Army formula from ALARACT 046/2023
2. For official measurements, always consult with military personnel
3. This tool is for informational purposes and unofficial self-evaluation only
4. Regular physical training and proper nutrition remain key to meeting standards

Tips for Accurate Measurements

1. Measure in the morning before eating
2. Use a proper measuring tape
3. Have someone assist with measurements when possible
4. Take multiple measurements and use the average
5. Ensure consistent measurement location at the navel
6. Maintain a relaxed, normal breathing pattern during measurement

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How accurate is the new Army tape test? A: The updated formula in ALARACT 046/2023 was developed to provide more accurate body fat estimates across diverse body types.

Q: What if I exceed body fat standards? A: Soldiers exceeding body fat standards may be enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP) and should focus on improving nutrition and physical training.

Q: How does this new method differ from the previous one? A: The new method simplifies measurements by only requiring waist circumference and weight, eliminating the need for neck and hip measurements. The calculation formulas have been updated to improve accuracy.

Q: When did these new standards take effect? A: These standards were implemented through ALARACT 046/2023 and represent the current official Army body fat calculation method.