Army Height and Weight Standards

The US Army has two forms of measure in which they get a general idea of a soldier’s fitness level. The first and most well-known method of assessing a soldier’s physical fitness level is the Army Physical Fitness Test. The second method is the Army Height and Weight Standards, which allows the Army to determine if you are overweight or underweight on their scale.

army height and weight standards. male and female soldiers

Even though you can pass a PT test, you still need to be able to meet the height and weight standards in order to join the Army. In some cases, waivers can be permitted, but you will be flagged when entering basic training.

Army Height and Weight Requirements

The U.S. Army’s height and weight requirements are designed to ensure that all soldiers are in optimal physical condition, capable of performing their duties effectively. These standards are a crucial aspect of the Army’s commitment to maintaining a force that is both healthy and ready for the demands of active duty.

Height Requirements

The Army has specific height requirements that vary based on gender. For men, the minimum height requirement is 60 inches (5 feet) and the maximum is 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches). For women, the minimum height requirement is also 60 inches (5 feet) and the maximum is 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches). These height requirements are in place to ensure that all soldiers can perform their duties efficiently and fit within the physical parameters of military equipment and vehicles.

Weight Requirements

Weight requirements in the Army are based on a combination of height and age. The Army uses a height and weight chart to determine if a potential recruit falls within the acceptable weight range for their height. This chart is designed to ensure that soldiers have a healthy body composition, taking into account both muscle mass and body fat.

For example, a male soldier aged 17-20 with a height of 68 inches should weigh between 132 and 178 pounds. For a female soldier of the same age and height, the weight range is between 120 and 168 pounds. These ranges are carefully calculated to ensure soldiers maintain a healthy weight that supports optimal physical performance.

Body Fat Percentage

If a recruit’s weight exceeds the maximum limit on the height and weight chart, the Army conducts a body fat assessment to determine if they still meet the Army’s standards. This assessment involves measuring the circumference of specific body parts, such as the neck and waist for men and the neck, waist, and hips for women. These measurements are then used to calculate the body fat standrds percentage.

The maximum allowable body fat percentage varies by age and gender. For male soldiers aged 17-20, the maximum body fat percentage is 20%, while for female soldiers in the same age group, it is 30%. Ensuring recruits have a healthy body fat percentage helps maintain physical readiness and reduces the risk of health issues related to being overweight or underweight.

How to use the Height and Weight chart below

Use the height and weight chart below to see if you meet the Army standards. First, find your height (in inches) using the leftmost column. Then, right next to it, you’ll see the minimum weight allowed. To find your maximum weight, go to the column corresponding to your age group. If you are 18 years old, you will look in the 17-20 age group column. There you will find the maximum weight allowed for your height in your age group.

Male Height and Weight Standards

Female Height and Weight Standards

Army PT Standards

The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) consists of three events: 2 minutes of Pushups, 2 minutes of Situps, and a 2-mile run. These standards vary based on age and gender, ensuring that all soldiers are evaluated fairly. To look at the detailed requirements based on your age and gender, visit our APFT Standards Page.

Push-Ups

Push-ups are a key component of the Army PT test, assessing upper body strength and endurance. The number of push-ups to pass the Army PT test varies by age and gender. For example, a male soldier aged 17-21 must complete a minimum of 42 push-ups, while a female soldier in the same age group must complete at least 19 push-ups.

To prepare for the push-up test, it’s important to practice regularly, focusing on proper form and gradually increasing the number of repetitions. Incorporating other upper body exercises, such as bench presses and shoulder presses, can also help build the necessary strength.

Sit-Ups

Sit-ups are another crucial part of the Army PT test, evaluating core strength and endurance. Similar to push-ups, the required number of sit-ups varies by age and gender. A male soldier aged 17-21 must complete at least 53 sit-ups, while a female soldier in the same age group must complete at least 53 sit-ups as well.

To improve sit-up performance, it’s essential to practice regularly, focusing on proper form and gradually increasing the number of repetitions. Core strengthening exercises, such as planks and leg raises, can also help build the necessary endurance.

2-Mile Run

The two-mile run tests a soldier’s cardiovascular endurance and overall fitness. The required time to complete the run varies by age and gender. For example, a male soldier aged 17-21 must complete the run in 15 minutes and 54 seconds or less, while a female soldier in the same age group must complete it in 18 minutes and 54 seconds or less.

To prepare for the two-mile run, it’s important to follow a regular running routine, gradually increasing distance and speed. Incorporating interval training and other cardiovascular exercises, such as cycling and swimming, can also help improve endurance and performance.

What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Requirements?

If you don’t meet the Army’s height and weight requirements, you may still have options. The Army provides waivers for individuals who are slightly above the weight limit but can demonstrate good physical fitness and health. Additionally, those who exceed the weight limit can undergo a body fat assessment to see if they still meet the Army’s body composition standards.

Failing to meet the height and weight requirements can delay enlistment or result in discharge if already in service. However, the Army offers support and resources to help soldiers meet the required standards, including fitness programs and nutritional guidance. These resources are part of the Army’s weight control program, which aims to assist soldiers in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and body composition.