More of this Feature • Body Fat Measurements

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The basic formula to determine body fat percentages for males is to measure the circumference of the neck, then subtract that measurement from the circumference of the waist. Take the result, and look up the body fat percentage on the chart below, depending on the individual's height (in inches).

For detailed instructions on taking the measurements, and for links to the other charts, see our Body Fat Measurement Main Page.

Body-Fat limits for each of the services are:

Army (New Recruit Standards)

Male 17-20 - 24%
Male 21-27 - 26%
Male 28-39 - 28%
Male 40+ - 30%
Female 17-20 - 30%
Female 21-27 - 32%
Female 28-39 - 34%
Female 40 + - 36%

Army (Standards After Boot Camp)

Male 17-20 - 20%
Male 21-27 - 22%
Male 28-39 - 24%
Male 40+ - 26%
Female 17-20 - 28%
Female 21-27 - 30%
Female 28-39 - 32%
Female 40+ - 34%

Air Force (New Recruit Standards)

Male 17-29 - 20%
Male 30 + - 24%
Female 17-29 - 28%
Female 30 + - 32%

Air Force (Standards After Boot Camp)

Note: The Air Force no longer measures body fat after basic training. Instead, "Body Composition" is an integrated part of the overall Air Force Fitness Test.

Navy (New Recruit Standards)

Male - 23%
Female - 34%

Navy (Standards After Boot Camp)

Male - 17 to 39 - 22 percent
Male - 40 + - 23 percent
Female - 17 to 39 - 33 percent
Female - 40 + - 34 percent

Marine Corps (Recruit and Regular Standards)

Male - 18%
Females - 26%

Coast Guard (Recruit and Regular Standards)

Male 17-29 - 23%
Male 30-39 - 25%
Male 40+ - 27%
Female 17-29 - 33%
Female 30-39 - 35%
Female 40+ - 37%

The below table is derived from DoD Instruction 1308.3, DoD Physical Fitness and Body Fat Programs Procedures.

Body Fat Percentages for Males between 75.0 and 79.5 Inches Tall: