Army Regulation 600-9, "Army Weight Control Program," states that soldiers must be able to meet the physical demands of their duties under combat conditions and to present "a trim military appearance at all times." Soldiers will be required to weigh in, at least, when taking the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) or no longer than every six months. Weight checks adhere to the following procedures:

1. Height is measured with shoes off, standing on a flat surface with the head held horizontal. The body is to stand straight, but not rigid.
2. Weight will be measured with the soldier in standard PT uniform (gym shorts and t-shirt) with shoes off. Your weight will be rounded to the closest whole pound (down if less than 1/2 a pound or up if at 1/2 a pound or more).

Height/Weight Chart For Males
Height/Weight Chart For Females

Those soldiers that exceed the maximum weight for their height will be be evaluated on how much of a body fat percentage they have. Counseling of overweight soldiers is required and individuals will be enrolled in a weight loss program and get a medical evaluation.

Soldiers who continue to be overweight or become pregnant while on the weight control program could face the following consequences:

1. not capable of promotion in rank
2. will not be assigned to command, command sergeant major, or first sergeant positions
3. not authorized to attend professional military schools until adequate weight has been lost
4. you could be processed for disenrollment

Below are the height/weight tables for males and females. Remember, if you first are found to exceed the maximum weight for your height, you will then have your body fat evaluated. If your body fat exceeds the Army's standards, that is when action will be taken.

Height, Weight, and Body Fat Charts

Height/Weight Chart for Males

Maximum Body Fat Standards (Male)
Age 17-20 = 20%
Age 21-27 = 22%
Age 28-39 = 24%
Age 40+ = 26%

Height/Weight Chart for Females

Maximum Body Fat Standards (Female)
Age 17-20 = 30%
Age 21-27 = 32%
Age 28-39 = 34%
Age 40+ = 36%