The Circumference Method is body fat percentage formula developed by the U.S. Navy for using two and three tape measurements to estimate body fat percentage.
Army Body Fat Formula
The formulas used for calculating the male and female percentages in the military body fat calculator are as follows:
| Male Formula |
|---|
Body Fat % =
495 / |
| Female Formula |
Body Fat % =
495 / |
| Formula Variables |
| n = neck
h = height w = waist H = hips |
Military Tape Test Measurement Sites For Women
| Female #1 |
|---|
| Neck |
 |
| To take each neck circumference measurement, place the tape at the narrowest point of the neck, sloping slightly down to the front. |
| Female #2 |
|---|
| Waist |
 |
| The waist circumference should be measured at the narrowest level, above the belly button (umbilicus). Another reference is halfway between the lowest rib on the sides and the top of the hips. If youíre unsure measure a second and a third time until you get the lowest value. |
| Female #3 |
|---|
| Hip |
 |
| To take each hip measurement, use the widest circumference of the hips with the tape as horizontal as possible. Should be measured with minimal clothing or underwear. Relax the buttocks (gluteus muscles) and spread the feet to shoulder width. |
Military Tape Test Measurement Sites For Men
| Male #1 |
|---|
| Neck |
 |
| To take each neck circumference measurement, place the tape at the narrowest point of the neck, sloping slightly down to the front. For men the measurement is taken below the Adams apple. |
| Male #2 |
|---|
| Waist |
 |
| Measure the waist circumference at the level of the belly button (umbilicus). Here you do not need to find the narrowest size. Make sure the tape is horizontal. |
Army Body Fat Charts
The following chart shows the maximum allowable body fat percentages for males and females to join at various age groups, according to Army Regulation 40–501.
| Age | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 26% | 32% |
| 21-27 | 26% | 32% |
| 28-39 | 28% | 34% |
| 40+ | 30% | 36% |
The following chart shows the maximum allowable body fat percentages for males and females after entry at various age groups, according to Army Regulation 600-9.
| Age | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 20% | 30% |
| 21-27 | 22% | 33% |
| 28-39 | 24% | 34% |
| 40+ | 26% | 36% |
Army Height and Weight Calculator
The following calculator will calculate the minimum and maximum weight to be eligible for service based on gender, age, and height.
Body Fat % Categories
The American Council on Exercise lists the following body-fat percentage categories:
| Category | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| Essential fat | 10% to 12% | 2% to 4% |
| Athletes | 14% to 20% | 6% to 13% |
| Fitness | 21% to 24% | 14% to 17% |
| Acceptable | 25% to 31% | 18% to 25% |
| Obese | 32% or higher | 26% or higher |