Navy Physical Requirements: What You Need To Know

The United States Navy is one of the most respected and elite branches of the military, with a long history of defending the country's interests and protecting its citizens. To become a part of this esteemed organization, individuals must meet certain physical requirements that ensure they are capable of performing their duties effectively and safely. In this article, we will delve into the Navy's physical requirements, including the various tests and standards that applicants must meet.

Body Fat Percentage Requirements

One of the primary physical requirements for Navy enlistment is body fat percentage. The Navy uses a formula to calculate body fat percentage based on height and weight. The formula is as follows:

For men: Body Fat Percentage = (Weight in pounds x 100) / (Height in inches x Height in inches x 3.5)
For women: Body Fat Percentage = (Weight in pounds x 100) / (Height in inches x Height in inches x 3.3)

The maximum allowable body fat percentage for Navy enlistment is:

24% for men aged 17-19
24% for men aged 20-24
26% for men aged 25-29
28% for men aged 30-34
30% for men aged 35-39
32% for men aged 40-44
34% for men aged 45-49
22% for women aged 17-19
24% for women aged 20-24
26% for women aged 25-29
28% for women aged 30-34
30% for women aged 35-39
32% for women aged 40-44
34% for women aged 45-49

Applicants who exceed the maximum allowable body fat percentage may be eligible for a waiver, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Physical Readiness Test (PRT)

The Physical Readiness Test (PRT) is a standardized test used by the Navy to assess an individual's physical fitness. The test consists of three components:

Push-ups
Sit-ups
1.5-mile run

The PRT is administered by a certified test administrator, and the results are used to determine an individual's overall fitness level.

Physical Screening Test (PST)

The Physical Screening Test (PST) is a more rigorous test used to assess an individual's physical fitness for specific ratings or programs within the Navy. The PST consists of the following components:

500-yard swim
Push-ups
Sit-ups
1.5-mile run
Pull-ups (for some ratings or programs)

The PST is administered by a certified test administrator, and the results are used to determine an individual's eligibility for specific ratings or programs.

Medical Standards

In addition to the physical requirements outlined above, applicants must also meet the Navy's medical standards. These standards include:

Vision: 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses
Hearing: Able to hear a whispered voice at 15 feet
Blood pressure: Less than 140/90 mmHg
Body mass index (BMI): Between 18.5 and 30

Applicants who do not meet the Navy's medical standards may be eligible for a waiver, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Tattoo Policy

The Navy has a strict policy regarding tattoos. Applicants with tattoos must ensure that they are not visible while in uniform. The Navy prohibits tattoos that are:

Visible above the collar line
Visible below the wrist line
On the hands or fingers
On the face, neck, or head

Applicants with tattoos that do not meet the Navy's policy may be eligible for a waiver, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Body Piercings

The Navy also has a policy regarding body piercings. Applicants with body piercings must ensure that they are not visible while in uniform. The Navy prohibits body piercings that are:

Visible on the face, neck, or head
Visible on the hands or fingers

Applicants with body piercings that do not meet the Navy's policy may be eligible for a waiver, but this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Preparation and Training

To prepare for the Navy's physical requirements, applicants can start by engaging in regular exercise and physical activity. This can include:

Cardiovascular exercise, such as running or swimming
Strength training, such as weightlifting or push-ups
Flexibility exercises, such as stretching or yoga

Applicants can also use online resources and training programs to help prepare for the PRT and PST.

Boot Camp and Training

Once applicants have enlisted in the Navy, they will attend boot camp, also known as Basic Training. During boot camp, recruits will undergo intensive physical training to prepare them for the demands of Navy life. Recruits will also receive training in areas such as:

First aid and emergency response
Navigation and seamanship
Combat skills and tactics

After completing boot camp, recruits will attend specialized training for their specific rating or program.

Conclusion

The Navy's physical requirements are designed to ensure that individuals are capable of performing their duties effectively and safely. By meeting the physical requirements outlined above, applicants can demonstrate their commitment to serving in the Navy and protecting the country's interests. If you are considering a career in the Navy, we encourage you to start preparing today.