Army Body Fat Standards — Legacy Percentage Limits
These age- and sex-based percentages belonged to the former Army circumference system. Current Army body-composition compliance uses waist-to-height ratio below 0.550.
| Age Group | Male Max Body Fat % (DA Form 5500) | Female Max Body Fat % (DA Form 5501) |
|---|---|---|
| 17 – 20 Years | 20% | 30% |
| 21 – 27 Years | 22% | 32% |
| 28 – 39 Years | 24% | 34% |
| 40+ Years | 26% | 36% |
What These Historical Body-Fat Limits Represent
The former Army process estimated body-fat percentage from circumference measurements and compared that estimate with different limits by age and sex. The table is preserved to explain old DA Form 5500/5501 records and superseded AR 600-9 references.
It should not be read as a current entitlement, target or administrative threshold. In September 2026, none of the percentages in this table determines Army body-composition compliance.
Current Standard: Waist-to-Height Ratio Below 0.550
Army Directive 2026-13 replaced the former circumference body-fat estimate and height/weight screen with WHtR. The Army's July 2026 WHtR update describes it as the sole body-composition assessment and documents the ATIS implementation.
The current formula is waist circumference divided by standing height. The recorded value must be less than 0.550; exactly 0.550 does not meet the standard. The cutoff does not change by age or sex, and the prior AFT-score exemption was rescinded.
Former Percentage System vs. Current WHtR System
| Feature | Former system | Current system |
|---|---|---|
| Output | Estimated body-fat percentage | Waist-to-height ratio |
| Measurements | Multiple circumference sites plus height | Waist at navel plus standing height |
| Cutoffs | Varied by age and sex | One recorded value below 0.550 |
| Forms | DA Form 5500 and DA Form 5501 | DA Form 5500 and ATIS recording |
Body Fat Standards — Frequently Asked Questions
Are the old Army body-fat percentages still current?
No. Current Army compliance uses WHtR below 0.550. The displayed percentages are historical values only.
What is the current Army body-composition limit?
The recorded waist-to-height ratio must be below 0.550. A result of 0.550 or higher does not meet the standard.
Does the WHtR limit change by age or sex?
No. The current standard uses the same below-0.550 recorded ratio without the former age and sex categories.
Why keep this table online?
It helps readers interpret historical Army records and old policy language. The legacy label prevents it from being confused with current requirements.