Where should a Soldier's abdominal circumference measurement be taken and to what precision should it be recorded?

• A. Measure at the navel (belly button) to the nearest half inch.
• B. Measure at the narrowest part of the waist to the nearest inch.
• C. Measure around the hips at the widest part to the nearest half inch.
• D. Measure around the chest, just under the armpits, to the nearest half inch.

Answer: (A)

Measuring around the abdomen at the level of the navel (umbilicus) and recording to the nearest half inch is the standard for the Army Body Composition Program. This site reflects abdominal adiposity consistently across individuals and over time, which is why it’s chosen rather than the narrowest waist, hips, or chest. The tape should be snug but not compressing the skin and held horizontally, with the person standing relaxed. Using the nearest half inch provides enough precision to track small, meaningful changes in body composition without over-precision.