The full measure: The Army’s new WHtR standard

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. — The Army’s new waist-to-height ratio policy under Army Directive 2026-13 officially replaces the former neck-to-waist tape test. This new standard is designed to improve Soldier health, accountability, and lethality of the force. Here is what every Soldier needs to know before the Sept. 30, 2026, deadline.

The new WHtR standard explained

• The Army is now using waist circumference at the navel, divided by height in inches, to measure body composition.
• A ratio under 0.55 means Soldiers meet the standard.
• Meeting the physical standards of the WHtR is mandatory for all Soldiers regardless of Army Fitness Test scores.

Semi-annual assessments and policy timelines

• Every Soldier is now measured twice annually.
• Soldiers who exceed the 0.55 standard on both their initial screening and same-day confirmation test will be flagged and enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program.
• For Soldiers enrolled in ABCP, the Army will conduct a 180-day review of the WHtR standard, and no separation actions for WHtR failure will occur until the review is complete and further guidance is disseminated.
• 180-day assessment is designed to evaluate accuracy, fairness, and the impact of readiness.

ASC commander's intent & WHtR assessment phases

• All ASC Soldiers must have their WHtR data entered into the Army Training Information System before Oct. 1, 2026.
• Following certified training for all NCOs on proper taping and measurement protocols, the ASC Headquarters and Headquarters Company will conduct assessments in three key phases:

Phase 1: Aug. 24–28, 2026 - Soldiers scheduled for temporary duty or leave during phases 2 and 3.

Phase 2: Sept. 8–11, 2026 - Soldiers are confident that they meet the standard.

Phase 3: Sept. 28–30, 2026 - Mandatory for Soldiers who have not been measured.

• Important: DO NOT WAIT FOR PHASE 3 — this final window is reserved strictly for Soldiers who could not be measured earlier due to TDY or leave. It should not be used as a delay tactic.
• Stay Informed: Additional guidance and updates will be communicated as the testing schedule is finalized by ASC leadership.

Diagnostic screenings and early tracking

• Anytime, Anywhere: Measurements are not restricted to official semi-annual testing windows. Commanders and supervisors have the authority to direct a diagnostic WHtR assessment at any time if they believe a Soldier may not meet the body composition standard.
• A tool for proactive tracking: Regular diagnostic screenings serve as a highly effective tool for tracking fitness progress, identifying potential issues early, and avoiding surprises during record evaluations.
• No administrative penalties: Diagnostic screenings are nonpunitive and do not trigger a flag or enrollment in the ABCP. They are designed to help Soldiers stay on the right track between biannual assessments.

The bottom line

The Army’s transition to the WHtR standard is designed to offer a simple and more medically accurate assessment of a Soldier’s body composition, while providing the time and resources necessary for Soldiers to adjust. The key to maintaining readiness is early diagnostic testing, open communication, and utilizing available resources. If a diagnostic check shows a ratio near or above 0.550, Soldiers should immediately seek guidance from unit Master Fitness Trainers and registered dietitians to design personalized physical training and nutritional plans to establish healthy habits before career progression is impacted.

“You cannot work toward a goal until you know and understand where you stand today, and the delta between your current state and that goal,” said Master Sgt. ShaKeia Dunn, ASC master fitness trainer.