Disputing a Failed Tape Test: Supplemental Assessments That Count
If the circumference or WHtR screen flags you, what supplemental body-fat methods are accepted, and how to request one.
By The VivMetric Editorial Team · independent editorial research project
When a dispute applies
Above the WHtR gate, the service runs a secondary body-fat evaluation. If you believe the tape was measured incorrectly, most services allow a supplemental assessment.
Accepted supplemental methods
Under AR 600-9 the accepted supplements include DXA, the Bod Pod (air-displacement), and the InBody 770 BIA where reasonably available. Home BIA scales are not accepted. Confirm the current list with your command.
How to request it
Raise the dispute through your chain of command / ABCP point of contact promptly; deadlines are short. Document measurements and request the supplemental method in writing.
Source
AR 600-9; DoD 1308.03 corridor. Data retrieved 2026-08-19.
Estimate body fat (Navy method)
Estimate body-fat % with the exact U.S. Navy circumference formula (neck + waist; hips for women).
Result
Quick answers
Related pages
- Standards detail → /standards
- WHtR detail → /whtr
- Tool page → /tools/body-fat