Verified Equipment AR 600-9 Approved Specs

Recommended Gear for Soldiers

High-precision tools for official taping compliance, body composition tracking, and Army Fitness Test preparation.

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Non-Stretch Fiberglass Body Tape

Standard sewing tapes stretch with repeated pulling, distorting your measurement by up to 0.75 inches. A fiberglass non-stretch tape with tenths-of-an-inch increments is critical for accuracy near the 0.550 threshold.

Essential for WHtR
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Calibrated Digital Scale

For Soldiers monitoring weekly weight trends and maintaining ABCP 3-8 lb benchmarks. Look for high precision sensors with consistent floor stability and zero drift.

ABCP Benchmark
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Trap Bar (Hex Bar) for MDL

The primary strength event on the AFT is the 3-Rep Maximum Deadlift performed with a neutral grip hex bar. Training with an Olympic-spec trap bar builds safe lifting mechanics.

AFT Event 1
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Dual Interval Workout Timer

Accurate timing for the 2-minute Hand-Release Push-Up, Sprint-Drag-Carry, and Plank events. Prevents pacing errors during unit diagnostics.

Fitness Prep

What Does AR 600-9 Require for Measuring Tapes?

According to AR 600-9 Appendix B, measuring tapes used for military body composition assessments must meet strict technical specifications:

  • Material: The tape must be made of non-stretchable material, preferably fiberglass. Cloth or tailor tapes that stretch under tension are strictly prohibited.
  • Width: The tape width must be between 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch for optimal alignment.
  • Calibration: Calibrated in inches and tenths of an inch (0.1 in) or 1/4 inch increments.
  • Retraction: Retractable spring-loaded casing with self-locking mechanisms is authorized to ensure consistent tape tension without skin depression.