Army Tape Test Calculator

Example: 5’10” = 70 inches
Measurement Tips:
  • Measure in inches, to the nearest 1/4 inch
  • Take measurements in the morning for consistency
  • Keep tape parallel to the floor
  • Do not “suck in” or compress the tape

Your Army Body Fat Results

20.5%
WITHIN STANDARDS ✓
Maximum Allowable: 20%
Age Group: 17-20
Age Group Men (Limit) Women (Limit)
17-20 20% 30%
21-27 22% 32%
28-39 24% 34%
40+ 26% 36%

Master Your Tape Test Results

In the United States Army, physical readiness is more than just a score on a fitness test; it is a requirement for professional longevity. The Army Body Fat Calculator is a vital tool for Soldiers to ensure they remain compliant with Army Regulation 600-9 (The Army Body Composition Program).

Whether you are preparing for a promotion board or your semi-annual weigh-in, knowing exactly where you stand with the “tape test” is the most effective way to avoid administrative flags and stay mission-ready.

How the Army Tape Test Works

The Army does not use traditional scales to determine body fat. Instead, it uses a specific circumference-based method known as the “Tape Test.” This method estimates your body fat percentage by measuring different parts of the body and applying those numbers to a mathematical formula.

Measurement Sites

To get the most perfect results, measurements must be taken precisely:

Men: Height, Neck (just below the larynx), and Abdomen (at the navel).

Women: Height, Neck, Waist (narrowest point), and Hips (widest point over the buttocks).

The Formula Behind the Calculation

The Army uses a logarithmic formula to estimate density. While it is an estimate, it has been the gold standard for military readiness for decades.

For Men: %BF = 86.010 × log10(abdomen – neck) – 70.041 × log10(height) + 36.76

For Women: %BF = 163.205 × log10(waist + hip – neck) – 97.684 × log10(height) – 78.387

*All measurements in inches. These are the official formulas from Army Regulation 600-9.

Army Body Fat Standards (2026)

Staying within these limits is essential for your career. The allowable body fat percentage varies by age and gender:

Pro Tip: Aiming for 2-3% below your maximum limit is the safest way to ensure a “pass” even on days when you might be bloated or retaining water.

Why Accuracy Matters

Failure to meet the standards set in Army Regulation 600-9 can lead to being placed in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP). This can result in:

  • Ineligibility for promotion.
  • Ineligibility for professional schools (Airborne, Air Assault, etc.).
  • Bar to reenlistment.
  • Administrative separation from service.
  • Mandatory fitness program enrollment.

ABCP Consequences: Soldiers enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program face monthly weigh-ins, mandatory exercise programs, and dietary counseling. Failure to make progress can result in administrative action.

Tips for Success

  • Consistency is Key: Take measurements at the same time of day, under the same conditions
  • Proper Nutrition: Focus on lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats
  • Strength Training: Build muscle to improve your body composition
  • Cardiovascular Exercise: Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps with fat metabolism and measurement accuracy
  • Monitor Progress: Use this calculator monthly to track your improvements

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on official Army formulas. Actual tape test results may vary based on the administrator’s technique, measurement conditions, and other factors. Always consult with your unit’s fitness professionals for official assessments and guidance.

Reference: Army Regulation 600-9, The Army Body Composition Program