Hey y'all! I'm currently considering a career in the military post-graduation, but I've heard there are different weight limits for the different branches. Can anyone provide insight into what these requirements are and how strictly they're enforced? Thanks!
In terms of physical fitness and weight, each branch of the military has different standards that they operate on, which can include body mass index (BMI) or a height/weight ratio.
1. Army: The Army has a weight requirement that varies depending on age, height, and gender. For instance, a man who is 5'9" has to weigh between 128 and 179 lbs, while a woman of the same height should weigh between 121 and 163 lbs.
2. Navy: In the Navy, they use something called Body Composition Assessment (BCA), which takes into account your height, waist measurement, and neck measurement. They don't have a strict weight limit, but rather a maximum body fat percentage which is 23% for men and 34% for women.
3. Air Force: Similar to the Navy, the Air Force uses a BCA test. However, their body fat percentage maximums are stricter, with a limit of 20% for men and 28% for women.
4. Marines: The Marines also use a sort of BCA test and they have maximum weight limits that can range anywhere from 175 lbs for a 5'6" man to 223 lbs for a 6'6" man. For women, the weight limits are a bit less - a woman who is 5'6" would have to weigh less than 170 lbs.
5. Coast Guard: The Coast Guard also uses a body fat standard, with a maximum body fat percentage of 22% for men and 32% for women.
6. Space Force: Since the Space Force is a newer branch and under the Department of the Air Force, it is likely that they follow the Air Force guidelines.
These are general guidelines and can vary based on your age and other factors, and they are strictly enforced. Joining the military means being fit enough to serve, whatever branch that may be. If you are over the weight limit but under the fat percentage, there is still a chance to get in. If your current weight does not meet the requirements, they will typically give you a workout and diet plan to help you reach the target weight.
However, meeting the weight limits is just part of the equation. Each branch also has its own physical fitness tests that involve activities like push-ups, sit-ups, and running. Therefore, even if you meet the weight standards, you should also focus on physical fitness and endurance training to successfully meet the requirements of each respective branch's fitness tests.
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