The Army Body Fat Calculator for men uses a specific formula developed by the U.S. Army to estimate body fat percentage. This calculation requires three body measurements: waist circumference, neck circumference, and height.
Formula
The U.S. Army uses the following formula for men:
[
\text{Body Fat} = 86.010 \times \log_{10}(\text{waist} - \text{neck}) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(\text{height}) + 36.76
]
The result is expressed as a percentage.
Where:
- Waist = circumference at the naval (inches)
- Neck = circumference at the smallest point (inches)
- Height = total height (inches)
How to Measure
Waist Measurement
Measure horizontally around the natural waist at the level of the naval (belly button). Keep the tape snug but not compressed.
Neck Measurement
Measure at the smallest point below the Adam's apple. The tape should be perpendicular to the long axis of the neck.
Height Measurement
Stand straight against a wall without shoes. Measure from the floor to the top of your head.
Example Calculation
For a man with:
- Waist: 36 inches
- Neck: 16 inches
- Height: 70 inches
Calculation:
[
\text{Body Fat} = 86.010 \times \log_{10}(36 - 16) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(70) + 36.76
]
[
= 86.010 \times \log_{10}(20) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(70) + 36.76
]
[
= 86.010 \times 1.301 - 70.041 \times 1.845 + 36.76
]
[
\text{Body Fat} = 111.90 - 129.23 + 36.76 = 19.43
]
This means approximately 19.43% body fat.
Army Body Fat Standards
The U.S. Army has maximum allowable body fat percentages that vary by age:
- Ages 17-20: 20%
- Ages 21-27: 22%
- Ages 28-39: 24%
- Ages 40+: 26%
Exceeding these standards may result in enrollment in the Army Weight Control Program or affect promotion and retention.
Important Notes
- This calculator is specifically for men. The formula for women includes hip measurement and uses different coefficients.
- This is an estimation method and may not be as accurate as clinical methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.
- For official Army purposes, measurements must be taken by trained personnel following strict protocols.
- Body fat percentage is just one indicator of fitness. Consider overall health, strength, and cardiovascular fitness as well.