The Army Body Composition Program (ABCP) is a mandatory fitness assessment that ensures all soldiers maintain appropriate body fat levels to support mission readiness and overall health. Unlike simple height-weight screenings, the ABCP uses precise body fat measurements to evaluate whether soldiers meet Army standards, recognizing that muscle mass and body composition vary significantly among individuals.
Recent Changes: From Multi-Site to Single-Site Measurement
Following comprehensive research in 2021 that demonstrated a clear relationship between body fat percentage and Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) performance—with higher body fat correlating to lower ACFT scores—the Army implemented significant changes to the program.
Effective June 9, 2024 (ALARACT 053/2024), the Army now uses only the one-site (abdomen) circumference-based tape method for all body composition assessments. This simplified approach replaces the previous multi-site measurements that required different body locations for males and females.
Current Body Fat Standards (2025)
Maximum Allowable Body Fat Percentages
| Age Group | Male Maximum | Female Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 20% | 30% |
| 21-27 | 22% | 32% |
| 28-39 | 24% | 34% |
| 40+ | 26% | 36% |
Height and Weight Screening Table (Sample)
| Height | Male (21-27) | Male (28-39) | Female (21-27) | Female (28-39) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5’6″ | 163 lbs | 168 lbs | 156 lbs | 158 lbs |
| 5’8″ | 174 lbs | 179 lbs | 166 lbs | 168 lbs |
| 5’10” | 185 lbs | 189 lbs | 176 lbs | 178 lbs |
| 6’0″ | 195 lbs | 200 lbs | 186 lbs | 188 lbs |
Note: If you exceed the weight for your height, you’ll undergo body fat assessment
The Assessment Process
Step 1: Height and Weight Screening
- Measured in physical fitness uniform (shorts and t-shirt)
- No shoes worn during measurement
- Weight rounded to nearest pound
- Height rounded to nearest inch for screening table
Step 2: Body Fat Assessment (If Required)
When it’s required: If you exceed the height-weight table limits
Current Method (One-Site Tape Test):
- Location: Abdomen at navel (belly button) level
- Measurements: Three separate measurements taken
- Accuracy: Recorded to nearest half-inch
- Personnel: Two trained individuals required (same gender preferred)
- Equipment: Non-stretchable fiberglass tape measure
Step 3: Calculation
The assessment uses specific formulas:
For Males: % Body Fat = -26.97 – (0.12 × weight in pounds) + (1.99 × abdomen circumference in inches)
For Females: % Body Fat = -9.15 – (0.015 × weight in pounds) + (1.27 × abdomen circumference in inches)
ACFT Score Exemption (540+ Rule)
Good News: Soldiers who score 540 or higher on the Army Combat Fitness Test may be exempt from body fat assessment even if they exceed height-weight standards. However, they must still complete the administrative portions of DA Forms 5500/5501.
What Happens If You Fail?
Immediate Consequences
- Flagging Action: DA Form 268 placed in your record
- Promotion Hold: Non-promotable status
- Assignment Restrictions: No command positions
- School Restrictions: Cannot attend professional military education
Supplemental Assessment Options
If you fail the initial tape test, you’re authorized one supplemental assessment using more advanced methods:
- DXA Scan (Dual-energy X-Ray Absorptiometry)
- InBody 770 (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis)
- BOD POD (Air Displacement Plethysmography)
Timeline: Up to 60 days to complete supplemental assessment (commander may extend based on availability)
Location: Government facilities, military treatment facilities, or approved colleges/universities
Preparing for Your Assessment
Before the Test
- Wear standard PT uniform (shorts and t-shirt)
- Remove shoes and socks
- Avoid binding undergarments
- Follow any specific preparation guidelines for supplemental assessments
Tips for Success
- Maintain Regular Fitness: Consistent exercise and proper nutrition
- Track Your Progress: Use body fat calculators to monitor your status
- Understand the Standards: Know your age group requirements
- Stay Hydrated: But follow pre-test guidelines for supplemental assessments
- Seek Help Early: Don’t wait until failure to address concerns
Army Body Composition Program Enrollment
If you fail both the initial tape test and any supplemental assessments, you’ll be enrolled in the ABCP, which includes:
- Individualized weight loss program
- Nutritional counseling
- Supervised exercise program
- Regular progress monitoring
- Potential administrative actions if no improvement
Key Takeaways
- The Army moved to a simplified one-site measurement system in 2024
- High ACFT scores (540+) can provide body fat exemptions
- Supplemental assessments offer a second chance with more accurate methods
- Early preparation and maintenance of fitness standards prevents complications
- The program exists to maintain mission readiness and soldier health
The Army Body Composition Program isn’t designed to punish soldiers—it’s a tool to ensure everyone maintains the physical readiness necessary for mission success. Stay proactive about your fitness, use available resources, and don’t hesitate to seek help from fitness professionals or medical personnel when needed.