THE ARMY WEIGHT CONTROL PROGRAM Army Regulation 600–9
Table of Contents Ch. 1: Introduction Ch. 2: Responsibilities   Ch. 3: Proper Weight Control Table List Figure List	Introduction   Summary of Change   Appendixes Glossary
Appendix B:   B-1 to B-3	< prev   |   next >

1. The procedures for the measurements of height, weight, and specific body circumferences for the estimation of body fat are described in this appendix.
2. Although circumferences may be looked upon by untrained personnel as easy measures, they can give erroneous results if proper precautions are not followed. The individual taking the measurements must have a thorough understanding of the appropriate body landmarks and measurement techniques. Unit commanders will require that designated personnel have hands-on training and read the instructions regarding technique and location and practice before official determinations are made. Two members of the unit will be utilized in the taking of measurements, one to place the tape measure and determine measurements, the other to assure proper placement and tension of the tape, as well as to record the measurement on the worksheet (DA Form 5500 (Body Fat Content Worksheet (Male) and DA Form 5501 (Body Fat Content Worksheet (Female)). The individual taking the measurements will be of the same sex as the Soldier being measured; the individual who assists the measurer and does the recording may be of either sex. The two will work with the Soldier between them so the tape is clearly visible from all sides. Take all circumference measurements three times and record them to the nearest 1/2 inch. If any one of the three closest measurements differs by more than 1 inch from the other two, take an additional measurement and compute a mathematical average of the three measurements with the least difference to the nearest 1/2 inch and record this value.
3. When measuring circumferences, compression of the soft tissue is a problem that requires constant attention. The tape will be applied so that it makes contact with the skin and conforms to the body surface being measured. It will not compress the underlying soft tissues. Note, however, that in the hip circumference more firm pressure is needed to compress gym shorts. All measurements are made in the horizontal plane (parallel to the floor), unless indicated otherwise.
4. The tape measure will be made of a nonstretchable material, preferably fiberglass; cloth or steel tapes are unacceptable. Cloth measuring tapes will stretch with usage and most steel tapes do not conform to body surfaces. The tape measure will be calibrated—that is, compared with a yardstick or a metal ruler to ensure validity. This is done by aligning the fiberglass tape measure with the quarter inch markings on the ruler. The markings will match those on the ruler; if not, do not use that tape measure. The tape will be 1/4- to 1/2-inch wide (not exceeding 1/2 inch) and a minimum of 5 to 6 feet in length. A retractable fiberglass tape is the best type for measuring all areas. Tapes currently available through the Army Supply System (Federal Stock Number 8315–00–782–3520) may exceed the 1/2-inch width limits and could slightly impact on circumferential measurements. Efforts are being made to replace the supply system tape with a narrower retractable tape. In the interim, the current Army supply system or any other fiberglass tape not to exceed 5/8 inch may be used if retractable tapes cannot be purchased by unit budget funds available and approved by installation commanders.

1. The height will be measured with the Soldier in stocking feet (without shoes) and standard PT uniform (gym shorts and T-shirt), standing on a flat surface with the head held horizontal, looking directly forward with the line of vision horizontal, and the chin parallel to the floor. The body will be straight but not rigid, similar to the position of attention. Unlike the screening table weight this measurement will be recorded to the nearest 1/2 inch in order to gather a more accurate description of the Soldier’s physical characteristics.
2. The weight will be measured with the Soldier in a standard PT uniform (gym shorts and T-shirt). Shoes will not be worn. The measurement will be made on scales available in units and recorded to the nearest pound with the following guidelines:
   1. If the weight fraction of the Soldier is less than 1/2 pound, round down to the nearest pound.
   2. If the weight fraction of the Soldier is 1/2 pound or greater, round up to the next whole pound.

1. All circumference measurements will be taken three times and recorded to the nearest 1/2-inch (or 0.50). Each sequential measurement will be within 1/2 inch of the next or previous measurement. If the measurements are within 1/2 inch of each other, derive a mathematical average to the nearest 1/2 of an inch. If the measurements differ by 1/2 inch or more continue measurements until you obtain three measures within 1/2 inch of each other. Then average the three closest measures.
2. Each set of measurements will be completed sequentially to discourage assumption of repeated measurement readings. For males, complete 1 set of abdomen and neck measurements, NOT three abdomen circumferences followed by three neck circumferences. Continue the process by measuring the abdomen and neck in series until you have three sets of measurements. For females, complete one set of neck, waist (abdomen), and hip measurements, NOT 3 neck followed by three waist (abdomen), and so on. Continue the process by measuring neck, waist (abdomen), and hip series until you have 3 sets of measurements.

Appendix B:   B-1 to B-3

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