Soldiers must maintain a high level of physical readiness in order to meet mission requirements. Body composition is one indicator of physical readiness that is associated with an individual’s fitness, endurance, and overall health. Individuals with desirable body fat percentages generally exhibit increased muscular strength and endurance, are less likely to sustain injury from weight bearing activity, and are more likely to perform at an optimal level. Soldiers will meet Army body composition standards, as prescribed in this regulation, for the individual and collective benefit to themselves, their unit, and the entire Army.

This regulation, Army Regulation AR 600-9 The Army Body Composition Program July 2019, establishes policies and procedures for the implementation of the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP).