Should the Army update its weight and tape procedures/mechanisms? If so, why?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 12:30:43 -0500

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jan 21 at 2016 3:49 PM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Thu, 21 Jan 2016 15:49:11 -0500

Yes the Army needs to update 600-9. The problem is finding a BF % test that is quick and easy enough for units to do. They also have to think about training everyone on how the new test is done (when/if it there is a new one). That is why the Army is taking so long changing 600-9.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 23 at 2016 9:44 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 09:44:08 -0500

Simply, yes. Why? The current standard is based on 50-year old data and 30-year old science, is routinely highly inaccurate, and leads, in a corporate sense, to a large waste of investment (it is really expensive to train a Soldier--why would we kick a Soldier out based on the results of an inaccurate test?)

Response by SSG Keith Evans made Mar 12 at 2016 1:59 PM

SSG Keith Evans — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 13:59:49 -0500

Yes, it is well beyond time for the Army to change its methods of assessing body composition. IMO, continuing to chapter Soldiers out of the Army knowing that the current test is highly inaccurate in principle, and subjective in nature, is counter to our Army Values.

The DEXA/DXA has recently become the new Gold Standard of body-fat measurement. While it takes a bit of training to use, any 68W (medic) should be able to learn quickly. Every Army Hospital has at least one already and some smaller clinics have one as well. At $30K per machine, we should be able to outfit the rest of the Army relatively quickly and inexpensively. We could incorporate this into our annual Physical Health Assessment (PHA). The unit won't need to do it anymore, when you have your PHA, your provider will automatically schedule you an appointment for it. MEDPROS!