About the DOD Method

The Department of Defense (DOD) utilizes a circumference-based method to estimate body composition. This method is considered the standard for determining compliance with body fat regulations (such as Army Regulation 600-9) when a service member exceeds the screening table weight for their height.

Unlike clinical methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing, the tape test is designed to be easily scalable and field-ready. However, accuracy depends highly on precise measurement placement:

• Neck: Measured perpendicular to the long axis of the neck.
• Waist (Male): Measured across the navel (belly button).
• Waist (Female): Measured at the point of minimal abdominal circumference (natural waist).
• Hips (Female): Measured around the widest portion of the buttocks.

Understanding your body composition is crucial for fitness. If you are looking to understand how body types influence these measurements, you might review the Body Type / Somatotype Calculator. Additionally, comparing this result with the U.S. Navy Method can provide a secondary data point.

Army Body Fat Standards

The maximum allowable body fat percentage increases with age. This accounts for natural physiological changes over time. Soldiers exceeding these limits are typically enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP).

If your results are outside the desired range, consider calculating your nutritional needs using the Daily Fat Intake Calculator or checking your Ideal Body Weight to set realistic fitness goals.

Official Formulas

The calculation relies on the logarithm (base 10) of circumference measurements. Note that height and circumferences must be converted to the same unit (inches) before calculation.

Male Formula

Female Formula

*Note: Measurements should be in inches.