How Does the Military Measure Your BMI?

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to calculate the percentage of body fat mass. BMI is used to identify potential weight problems for adults.

How Does the Military Calculate BMI?

The military calculates BMI based on a person's frame size and height, but under the military policy, the maximum BMI the military allows is 27.5 for men and women regardless of height or weight.

Secondary Body Fat Measurement System.

The military uses a secondary body fat measurement system to check if a person is actually overweight, so muscular men and women are not excluded. The second measurement cannot exceed 26 percent for men or 36 percent for women.

BMI Determination Requirements

No military service can have a standard stricter than a BMI of 25 or more liberal than 27.5. Male fat measurements must be between 18 percent and 26 percent. Female fat measurements must be between 26 percent and 36 percent.

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