The Navy’s current height and weight standard is a waist-to-height ratio of approximately 0.55. Starting Jan. 2026, the Navy no longer uses the older height and weight tables. Instead, they measure your waist at the belly button and divide it by your height. If that ratio is at or below 0.55, you pass.
For example, if you are 5’10” (70 inches), your maximum waist is 38 inches.
You will need to pass this body composition screening at MEPS before you can ship to boot camp. MEPS stands for Military Entrance Processing Station — it’s the facility where every person who wants to join the military goes to complete their medical exam, take the ASVAB test, and get officially sworn in. There are 65 MEPS locations across the country, and your recruiter will schedule your visit.
If you don’t meet the body composition standard at MEPS, you won’t be leaving until you do. The good news is that this change actually works in your favor if you are in decent shape — your weight on the scale no longer matters for the initial screening.
In this article, I will explain how the new system works, provide examples of the numbers you will need to meet the standards, and discuss what happens if you exceed the limits. I will also compare the standards used by the Navy to those of the Army and Air Force so you can make a well-informed decision regarding which branch you want to serve in. Additionally, I will provide a calculator you can use to determine if you meet the 2026 standards prior to speaking with a recruiter.
Use our free Navy BCA calculator below to check if you meet the 2026 standards.
Preparing for the ASVAB? Take our free Navy ASVAB practice test before you ship out.
Changes Made by the Navy in 2026
The Navy completely changed its standards for determining body composition at the beginning of 2026. Below is an explanation of what has changed, why these changes matter to you, and additional details to help you prepare for MEPS.
Less emphasis on scales. Prior to 2026, the Navy weighed you and compared that to a table based on your height. If you were overweight according to the table, you would get “taped.” In contrast, the new system eliminates the weight table entirely. Instead, the Navy will measure your waist at the belly button and divide it by your height. If the ratio is at or below approximately .55, you will pass – regardless of what you weigh.
The same standard for all. The screening for the waist-to-height ratio is sex neutral. Both males and females are subject to the same cutoff point. Although there are differences in the body fat percentage limits (the second test if you fail the ratio), the first test is the same for both males and females.
Fitness assessments twice each year. The Navy changed from one fitness assessment cycle to two. Cycle 1 will run from Jan. to Jun., and Cycle 2 will run from Jul. to Dec. Once you are on active duty, you will be required to perform both cycles.
All PFA (Physical Fitness Assessment) failures prior to Jan. 1, 2026, Wiped Clean. All PFA failures prior to Jan. 1, 2026, were canceled and will no longer count towards re-enlisting, advancing, promoting or continuing service. This does not apply to new enlistees, however; it is significant for anyone currently serving.
Three strikes instead of two. Two consecutive PFA failures previously led to administrative separation. However, under the new regulations, it requires three consecutive PFA failures within a four year period. This gives individuals more opportunity to recover.
Failure of BCA is not automatically disqualifying. Those who fail the BCA may still pass the overall PFA if they receive an Outstanding-Low on the Physical Readiness Test and an Excellent-Medium or higher rating in all three categories: arm strength, core strength and cardio.
Why the Navy changed its approach. The previous height and weight tables often penalized strong, muscular sailors and missed potential health problems caused by excessive body fat. Waist-to-height ratio is a better indicator of heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
What You Must Pass at MEPS
The process at MEPS is very simple. They will measure your height, your waist and your weight.
Your height: You will stand against the stadiometer (measuring device on the wall) with your heels flat and your head straight ahead. Your height is measured to the nearest half inch.
Your waist: This is the most important measurement. A tape measure will be wrapped around your waistline at your belly button (not your hip bones, which is where many people believe it should go). The tape will be snug but should not be pressing into your skin. The measurement is taken after a normal, relaxed exhalation.
Your weight: You will step onto a scale in your PT clothing (T-shirt, shorts, socks – no shoes).
Next, the Navy will divide your waist measurement by your height. If the result is equal to or less than the maximum waist measurement for your height (approximately .55), you will pass and you will continue on.
If it exceeds the maximum, the Navy will compute your body fat percentage using your waist, height and weight. If your body fat is within acceptable limits, you will pass. If it is not, you have several options – including a waiver program that I will discuss later.
Navy Waist-to-Height Screening Chart (2026)
This chart is the primary standard. Look for your height on the left side of the chart and the maximum waist measurement on the right side of the chart. If your waist is equal to or less than the measurement listed for your height, you will pass. There is no further testing required.
The chart will be used by both men and women and will have the same cut off point.
| Height (inches) | Maximum Waist (inches) | Height (inches) | Maximum Waist (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 31.0 | 69 | 37.5 |
| 57.5 | 31.5 | 69.5 | 38.0 |
| 58 | 31.5 | 70 | 38.0 |
| 58.5 | 32.0 | 70.5 | 38.5 |
| 59 | 32.0 | 71 | 39.0 |
| 59.5 | 32.5 | 71.5 | 39.0 |
| 60 | 32.5 | 72 | 39.5 |
| 60.5 | 33.0 | 72.5 | 39.5 |
| 61 | 33.5 | 73 | 40.0 |
| 61.5 | 33.5 | 73.5 | 40.0 |
| 62 | 34.0 | 74 | 40.5 |
| 62.5 | 34.0 | 74.5 | 40.5 |
| 63 | 34.5 | 75 | 41.0 |
| 63.5 | 34.5 | 75.5 | 41.5 |
| 64 | 35.0 | 76 | 41.5 |
| 64.5 | 35.0 | 76.5 | 42.0 |
| 65 | 35.5 | 77 | 42.0 |
| 65.5 | 36.0 | 77.5 | 42.5 |
| 66 | 36.0 | 78 | 42.5 |
| 66.5 | 36.5 | 78.5 | 43.0 |
| 67 | 36.5 | 79 | 43.0 |
| 67.5 | 37.0 | 79.5 | 43.5 |
| 68 | 37.0 | 80 | 43.5 |
| 68.5 | 37.5 |
Note: The above table is a shortened version of the original table. The complete table, which includes measurements for heights ranging from 48″ to 83.5″, is found in the Guide-4, Body Composition Assessment, Table-1 (Dec. 2025).
Common Heights and Their Waist Measurements:
- 5’6″ (66″) = Max Waist of 36″
- 5’8″ (68″) = Max Waist of 37″
- 5’10” (70″) = Max Waist of 38″
- 6’0″ (72″) = Max Waist of 39.5″
- 6’2″ (74″) = Max Waist of 40.5″
Quick Example: You are 5’10” and your waist at the belly button measures 37″. You pass. If your waist measures 39″, you will be over and they will determine your body fat.
IF YOU DON’T PASS THE WAIST SCREENING
Failing the waist to height ratio does not mean you are done. The Navy has a second way of testing.
BODY FAT LIMITS
If you have too high of a waist to height ratio the Navy will determine your body fat percentage by using your waist size, height and weight. There are different formulas used for men and women.
| MAX BODY FAT | |
|---|---|
| Men | 26% |
| Women | 36% |
If your body fat is at or below the maximum allowed for your sex you pass — regardless of whether your waist to height ratio passed or not. If your body fat exceeds the maximum allowed, you will be required to improve your condition prior to shipping.
The Navy does not use a neck measurement nor a full-body tape test as they once did. Only your waist size, height and weight are considered.
THE WAIVER OPTION
Most people are not aware that the Navy has a waiver program for recruits who are very close, but not quite there.
If you receive a 50 or greater on the AFQT portion of the ASVAB and your body fat is 32% or lower (men) or 42% or lower (women), you may be eligible for the FSPC-PFT program at the Recruit Training Center in Great Lakes, IL.
The FSPC-PFT program is essentially a three-week boot camp prep focused on fitness and nutrition. After completing the initial three-week period, if you are unable to pass the required tests, you are entitled to participate in three additional training periods.
This is a true option — not many branches offer this type of option. For example, the Marine Corp does not have a formal waiver for overweight recruits.
NAVY BODY COMPOSITION CALCULATOR
Enter your sex, height, waist circumference, and weight to find out if you meet the 2026 Navy Body Composition Standards. The calculator uses your waist-to-height ratio (Step 1) to determine if you have met the requirement. If you have not met the requirement the calculator will estimate your body fat percentage (Step 2) so you will be able to compare your estimated body fat percentage to the Navy’s maximum allowable body fat percentages.
HOW THEY TAKE THE MEASUREMENTS
Knowing exactly how the Navy takes the measurements of you will enable you to prepare and prevent unexpected events when taking the measurements.
WHO TAKES THE MEASUREMENTS
The measurements are taken by only authorized Command Fitness Leaders (CFL) or Assistant CFLs. At least two must be present. You cannot be measured alone, and medical personnel cannot alter the measurements.
WAIST MEASUREMENT
This is the measurement that counts the most. The tape is wrapped around your mid-section at your navel — NOT at your hips. The person measuring begins on the right and wraps the tape around your body parallel to the ground. The tape must fit tightly, but not dig into your skin. They measure you at the end of a normal exhalation while you are standing up straight, with your arms at your sides.
The tape MUST be made of fiberglass (non-stretching) material and not cloth or metal. The Navy recommends a self-retracting tape such as the Myotape.
TIMING
The body composition assessment must occur within 45 days of the Physical Readiness Test, however, it must not occur less than 24 hours prior to the test. When the body composition assessment is completed, it is FINAL. The first official measurement of each cycle is the final measurement.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DO NOT MEET NAVY STANDARDS AT MEPS
AT MEPS
If you fail either the waist-to-height screening, or the body fat screening as a back-up, you will not be shipped. However, if you meet the AFQT and body fat requirements, you could possibly be accepted through the FSPC-PFT waiver program.
If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is below 19, the MEPS Chief Medical Officer will conduct a more thorough examination to determine if you have an underlying medical condition. You can be qualified with a BMI as low as 17.5 if you are actively involved in sports, and have no medical or psychological problems.
ONCE YOU ARE ON ACTIVE DUTY
Passing at MEPS is just the first hurdle. Once you are in the Navy, you will be tested every six months. This is what will happen if you do not stay within standards.
You will be placed in FEP. Sailors that fail the body composition assessment and do not qualify for the high performance exemption, will be placed in the Fitness Enhancement Program. The Fitness Enhancement Program is a structured exercise and nutrition support program; however, it also includes career limitations.
Three failures and you’re gone. Three PFA failures in a four-year time span will trigger processing for Administrative Separation. While in failure status, you will not be allowed to promote, advance in rank, reenlist, or transfer until you successfully complete your next official PFA. Your commanding officer may authorize a special PFA, allowing you to try again sooner.
There is no exception for sailors with 18 to 20 years of service. Not being close to retiring does not exempt you from these consequences.
HIGH PERFORMANCE EXEMPTION
If you fail the body composition assessment, but score well on the physical fitness assessment, you may be able to pass the entire PFA. To qualify for the high-performance exemption, you must achieve an outstanding-low total score on the physical fitness assessment and an excellent-medium or better in each of the three areas: arm strength, core strength and cardio.
This is a difficult goal to reach. According to 2023 statistics, approximately 9,500 sailors failed the body composition assessment that year. Of those approximately 300, or slightly over 3 percent, were able to qualify for the exemption based upon their physical fitness scores. While it is possible, do not rely on it as your primary plan.
COMBAT ARMS: SEPARATE FITNESS TEST
If you are enlisting into a combat arms rating (SEAL, EOD, SWCC, or Fleet Diver), you will take a separate fitness test.
Rather than having to take two PFAs per year, combat arms sailors will take one PFA and one CFA (Combat Fitness Assessment). The CFA will include both a body composition assessment and a combat fitness test: an 800 meter swim with fins, twenty pound weighted push-ups, twenty pound weighted pull-ups, and a twenty pound weighted one mile run.
This will not impact you during your enlistment process at MEPS; however, it is relevant information if you are seeking to become a member of a combat arms rating.
HOW THE NAVY COMPARES TO OTHER BRANCHES
When considering enlistment into another branch, body composition standards may be an area of consideration. Below are the comparison details:
| Branch | How They Measure You | Max Body Fat (M/F) | Frequency of Testing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navy | Waist-to-Height Ratio (approximately .55) | 26%/36% | Twice Per Year |
| Marine Corp | Height/Weight Tables + Tape Tests (Switched to WHtR) | 18-21%/26-29% (By Age) | Once Per Year |
| Army | Weight-for-Height + Tape Tests | 18-26%/26-36% (By Age) | Twice Per Year |
| Air Force | Body Composition Assessments | Vary | Twice Per Year |
| Coast Guard | Weight-for-Height + Tape Tests | 22-26%/32-36% (By Age) | Twice Per Year |
The Navy’s body fat limits are more liberal than the Marine Corp, but similar to the Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The key distinction is the screening method – the Navy is the first branch to completely transition to the waist-to-height ratio screening method – therefore your actual weight on the scales does not matter in the initial screening.
If you are muscular and weigh more due to muscle mass, but have a smaller waist measurement, the Navy’s system will work in your favor.
For comparison purposes, click on the link below for the other branches’ standards:
- Marine Corp Height & Weight Standards
- Army Height & Weight Standards
- Air Force Height & Weight Standards (Coming Soon)
- Coast Guard Height & Weight Standards (Coming Soon)
Tips To Get Ready Before Your Ship-Out
You want to focus on your waist-to-height ratio. That means, instead of focusing on how much you weigh, you are going to focus on your waist size. These tips are based on what works.
Know where they will measure your waist. The tape measures around your belly button, NOT your hip bone. There are many people out there who measure at the wrong point, which can create a false impression of where they stand currently. It is best to get used to measuring at this correct location now.
Get started early. Changes in waist-to-height ratio require 8 to 12 weeks of consistent effort. If your ship-out is scheduled for 3 months from now, get started NOW — not the week prior to MEPS.
Concentrate on Visceral Fat. Regular cardio exercises along with strength training, combined with a moderate caloric reduction, is the most effective way to reduce the amount of visceral fat around your middle area of the body.
Visceral fat is the type of fat that surrounds your organs. This is the type of fat that the Waist-Hip Ratio is designed to measure, and it is very responsive to both cardio and strength training.
Reduce Sodium Intake Before Testing. Excessive salt causes you to hold excess water. This may cause a temporary increase in your waist size due to the retention of water. Reducing sodium intake several days before your MEPS and drinking plenty of water will help you avoid retaining excess water.
Don’t Crash Diet Or Dehydrate. The Navy has specifically stated that extreme methods will result in them believing you have artificially reduced your measurements either by dehydrating or some other trickery. They will make you wait at least 72 hours after they believe you have engaged in artificial manipulation of your measurements.
Use the Calculator To Track Your Progress. Use the Waist-Hip Ratio Calculator to track your progress at home, so when you go to take your MEPS, there will be no surprises.
This information is intended as general guidance, and not as medical advice. Consult with your doctor prior to initiating any new diet or exercise program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible to enlist in the Navy if I am overweight?
Yes. The Navy no longer uses a weight chart to determine whether or not you can enlist into the Navy. The Navy uses your Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) as its primary method of determining whether or not you meet their physical fitness requirements.
If your WHR is at or less than about 0.55, you will pass the initial screening regardless of your current weight. If your WHR is greater than .55, you will have to undergo additional testing, including a body fat percentage measurement. Male candidates must have a body fat percentage of 26% or less, while female candidates must have a body fat percentage of 36% or less.
Additionally, even if you have a body fat percentage that exceeds these percentages, you can still attempt to enlist into the Navy through the FSPC-PFT Waiver Program, provided you receive a minimum of 50 on the AFQT and your body fat percentage does not exceed 32% (male) or 42% (female).
What is the Navy’s Waist-Hip Ratio Cutoff?
The Navy’s waist-hip ratio screening cutoff is approximately 0.55. The exact maximum waist circumference varies depending upon your height. For example, if you are 5 feet 10 inches tall (70 inches), your maximum waist circumference is 38 inches.
How is the Navy’s Waist Measured?
The Navy’s waist measurement is taken around your belly button, not at the top of your hip bone. The tape is placed around your midsection in such a manner that it is parallel to the ground. The tape is to be snugly fitted to your body, but not compressed. The measurement is to be taken at the conclusion of a normal exhalation.
Are Men and Women Subjected to the Same Physical Fitness Standards?
Men and women are subjected to the same Waist-Hip Ratio screening process. However, the body fat percentage requirements are different. Male candidates must have a body fat percentage of 26% or lower, while female candidates must have a body fat percentage of 36% or lower.
How Often Do Navy Recruits Have to Complete a Physical Readiness Test (PRT)?
Beginning in 2026, all active-duty Navy personnel will be required to complete two Physical Readiness Tests (PRTs) per calendar year – one during the months of January through June, and another during the months of July through December. Each PRT will include a body composition assessment.
What Happened to the Old Weight Tables?
The Navy has discontinued the use of weight tables to screen recruits. The Navy began using the Waist-Hip Ratio as its primary method of screening recruits in January 2026. The old three-step process (weight-in, abdominal circumference, full tape test) has been consolidated into a two-step process – Waist-Hip Ratio screening followed by body fat calculation if necessary.
Can I Still Pass Even If I Fail the Body Composition Assessment?
Yes, you can still pass the body composition assessment even if you fail the initial screening. You would need to achieve an “Outstanding-Low” overall score on the physical readiness test, with scores of “Excellent-Medium” or better in arm strength, core strength and cardio. Approximately 3 percent of Navy personnel who fail the body composition assessment meet the criteria to qualify for a High-Performance Exemption.
What Will Happen If I Fail Three Physical Readiness Tests?
If you fail three PRTs in a four-year period, it will trigger processing for administrative separation. Additionally, you will not be eligible for promotion, advancement, reenlistment, or transfer until you successfully complete the next official PRT.
Will Previous Failures Count Under the New System?
No. All failures prior to January 1, 2026 will be considered void. Therefore, previous failures will not be factored into decisions regarding reenlistment, advancement, or continuing in your career. However, commissioning programs and special duty screenings may still consider previous failures.
If I Am Too Thin, Can I Still Join the Navy?
Yes. If your BMI is below 19, the MEPS medical officer will conduct a more detailed evaluation of your physical condition. You can still qualify for enlistment with a BMI of 17.5 if you are physically fit, and have no medical or psychiatric conditions.
Before You Go to MEPS:
If you’re in relatively good shape, the new 2026 body composition standards established by the Navy should be seen as a plus. With the switch from a weight table to a waist-to-height ration, your overall weight does not have as much impact as your waist circumference in relation to your height.
Look for a Waist-Hip ratio that is at or below 0.55. This number will help you pass the initial screening without being subject to additional testing.
If you are near the threshold, allow yourself time. Begin measuring your waist at your belly button, track your Waist-Hip Ratio and engage in a consistent regimen of exercise for 8 to 12 weeks prior to your MEPS date. If you are slightly over the threshold, the Navy offers a waiver program that most branches of service do not offer.
Use the Waist-Hip Ratio Calculator located above to see where you currently stand.
Next Steps:
- Take a Free Navy ASVAB Practice Exam
- View Marine Corps Height and Weight Requirements
- Compare all Military Height and Weight Requirements
Sources: NAVADMIN 264/25; OPNAVINST 6110.1L; Guide-4: Body Composition Assessment, December 2025 (mynavyhr.navy.mil); Navy Times; USNI News