When it comes to the Physical requirements for the Marine Corps, it is every Marine’s responsibility to maintain the specific weight and height requirements that the USMC sets to standard. The weight and body fat standards are set upon healthy and performance based standards.
Each Marine is typically weighed in at least twice a year, and annually for Reserves. They are only measured for body fat when the weight exceeds the required weight expectations.
If a soldier’s body fat or weight exceeds the limits, they are placed into a Body Composition Program. Your weight is compared to the Marine Corps weight allowance chart. If you meet the standard weight allowance for your height, no further action will be required.
If you are over the weight on the chart, but meet the body-fat standards, you are considered to be within the required standards, and no further action will be taken.
Note:The Body Fat Standards for Marines are not to exceed 18 percent for males and not to exceed 26 percent for females.
INITIAL STRENGTH TEST
To even begin recruit training, aspiring Marines must pass the Initial Strength Test (IST). It is recommended that recruits report to training with scores well above the minimum standards. The IST consists of the following tests for all applicants:
PULL UPS / PUSH UPS
Male: 3 pull-ups or 34 push-ups (2:00 time limit)
Female: 1 pull-up or 15 push-ups (2:00 time limit)
RUN
Male: 1.5 mile run in 13:30
Female: 1.5 mile run in 15:00
PLANK OR CRUNCHES
40 second plank (1:03 minimum)
44 crunches (2:00 time limit)
The body fat exemption for Marines who score 285 points or higher on both the Physical Fitness Test and Combat Fitness Test will reflect an allowance that is capped at 26% for males and 36% for females. Marines exceeding these body fat percentages will be processed for BCP, regardless of their PFT or CFT scores. The existing additional 1% body fat allowance for Marines scoring 250 points or higher on both the PFT and CFT remains in effect, not to exceed the maximums of 26% for males and 36% for females.
- USMC Physical Fitness Test
- USMC Combat Fitness Test
- Height and Weight Requirements- Female
- Height and Weight Requirements-Male
- USMC PFT Calculator