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How to Calculate Army Body Fat

What is Army Body Fat?

The US Army body fat calculator uses circumference measurements to estimate body fat percentage. It was developed as a field-expedient method that doesn't require specialist equipment. Men measure neck and waist; women measure neck, waist, and hips.

Formula

Men: %BF = 86.010 × log₁₀(waist − neck) − 70.041 × log₁₀(height) + 36.76
BF
163 — 163

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1Men: %BF = 86.010 × log₁₀(waist − neck) − 70.041 × log₁₀(height) + 36.76
  2. 2Women: %BF = 163.205 × log₁₀(waist + hip − neck) − 97.684 × log₁₀(height) − 78.387
  3. 3All measurements in inches or cm (formulae differ)
  4. 4Maximum allowable body fat: varies by age and sex (e.g., male age 17–20: max 20%)

Worked Examples

Input
Male: height 70", neck 15", waist 32"
Result
~15% body fat
Well within Army standards
Input
Male: height 70", neck 15", waist 40"
Result
~25% body fat
Above Army maximum for most ages

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Army Body Fat?

The US Army body fat calculator uses circumference measurements to estimate body fat percentage. It was developed as a field-expedient method that doesn\

How accurate is the Army Body Fat calculator?

The calculator uses the standard published formula for army body fat. Results are accurate to the precision of the inputs you provide. For financial, medical, or legal decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.

What units does the Army Body Fat calculator use?

This calculator works with centimetres, inches, percentages, watts. You can enter values in the units shown — the calculator handles all conversions internally.

What formula does the Army Body Fat calculator use?

The core formula is: Men: %BF = 86.010 × log₁₀(waist − neck) − 70.041 × log₁₀(height) + 36.76. Each step in the calculation is shown so you can verify the result manually.

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