This page contains the supporting documentation for the recently published guidance in MARADMIN 073/26.
Please Note: The Human Performance Branch is in the process of updating all forms and records for the Body Composition Program, PFT/CFT, and MAP Assignment.
FREQuENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the new waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) standard, and is it different for males and females?
The new standard is a WHtR of less than or equal to 0.52. Refer to paragraph 6 of MARADMIN 066/26 for the list of maximum WHtR measurements. This standard is the same for all Marines, regardless of sex.
2. What happens if my waist measurement exceeds the new WHtR standard for my height?
If you exceed the WHtR standard, you will be required to undergo a body fat evaluation using the multi-site tape test and/or a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) device. Should you not meet the standard on the initial assessment, a secondary body fat assessment will be conducted using the remaining method.
3. How do my PFT and CFT scores affect my maximum allowable body fat percentage under the new policy?
High performance on the PFT and CFT provides an allowance for a higher body fat percentage.
• A score of 250 or higher on both tests allows for an additional 1% body fat.
• A score of 285 or higher on both tests allows up to 26% body fat for males and 36% for females.
4. I was already assigned to the Body Composition Program (BCP) on or after January 1, 2026. How does the new policy affect my status?
You will be reevaluated at your unit's earliest convenience using the new WHtR standard. If your waist measurement is below the maximum allowable waist measurement for your height, your BCP assignment will be deleted as erroneous. If you are outside the WHtR standard, your assignment continues. Body fat will not be reevaluated if you exceed WHtR.
5. How will the waist measurement be taken, and who is authorized to conduct it?
The waist measurement will be taken at the navel using a self-tensioning tape. The measurement must be conducted by an evaluator of the same sex as the Marine being evaluated. It will be measured twice, with the lower of the two measurements being recorded and rounded down to the nearest half inch. The evaluator must also be a Force Fitness Instructor (FFI), Command Physical Training Representative (CPTR), or trained evaluator as required.
6. I have a fitness report due soon. How will my body composition results be documented in the report with these new changes?
Directed comments listed in paragraphs 3.g through 3.g.5 apply to any Marines who have completed the new WHtR assessment and all Marines after June 30, 2026. Fitness reports due prior to June 30 will be accepted with height and weight entries.
7. The MARADMIN states my weight will still be recorded in 2026. If it's not being used for the height/weight assessment, why is it being collected?
Your weight will be recorded during the calendar year 2026 for data collection purposes. The Marine Corps will use this information to analyze and assess the impacts of the new policy changes. Your weight will not be used for a body composition determination or evaluation of any kind.
8. Are we submitting or certifying scoresheets in MCTIMs?
No, units will not submit or certify any scoresheets in MCTIMS since the system is not yet built to accept waist measurements. Training sections will locally document and upload documentation to a calendar event in MCTIMs.
9. In reference to final BCP determination, if a Marine completed their final weigh-in prior to the release of the MARADMIN, will they have to conduct a WHtR evaluation?
No. If a Marine conducted and was within standards on their last weigh in, they do not have to be reevaluated using WHtR.
10. With recent changes to the Body Composition Program, what training must my CPTR or FFI complete?
In addition to the already required MarineNet courses, ensure all evaluators have reviewed MARADMIN 066/26 to include the Waist to Height Procedural Guidance document. The MarineNet courses will be revised to include the new body composition evaluation process to include BIA.
Below you will find the links to; commonly asked questions, body composition worksheet, and procedural guidance.