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Is there a weight limit for joining the US military branches?

Hey guys! I'm planning to enlist after graduating from high school, but I'm a bit above average in terms of weight. Does anyone know if there are specific weight requirements or limits when signing up for any of the US military branches?

a year ago

All branches of the U.S. military have weight and physical fitness standards that vary based on age, sex, and height. These are not necessarily "limits," but rather, health standards to ensure that service members can handle the often physical and demanding nature of military service.

Standards can differ slightly between branches (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force), but generally, they use a weight-to-height ratio chart and a body fat percentage method to evaluate applicants. For instance, a man who is 5'10" should generally weigh between 132 and 189 lbs (again, this varies by branch), and his body fat percentage should not exceed a certain threshold (about 18-20% for young men, but this also varies by age and service branch).

If your weight is a bit above these standards, the military may measure your body fat percentage to see if you're eligible. Some branches might also allow recruits to enter a fitness and nutrition program if their weight or body fat is harmful to their health or their ability to perform military duties.

Remember that these standards are in place to ensure you can perform your duties effectively and safely. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle not just to meet the recruitment standards but also because military training and service can be physically demanding. Best of luck with your decision!

a year ago

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