COMDTINST 1020.8I — Body Composition Standards Program

COMDTINST 1020.8I governs the Coast Guard Body Composition Standards Program, including screening, compliance, probation, and exemptions.

Search COMDTINST 1020.8I

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 1020.8I
  • Title: BODY COMPOSITION STANDARDS PROGRAM
  • Date: 3/31/2022
  • Proponent: CG-1334

View COMDTINST 1020.8I on armypubs.army.mil

It establishes body mass index, body fat, abdominal circumference, and Physical Fitness Test compliance measures. It sets requirements for measurements, documentation, probation, separation, abeyances, and exemptions.

Applies to: It is intended to provide operational guidance for Coast Guard personnel and is not intended to nor does it impose legally-binding requirements on any party outside the Coast Guard.

Topics covered

  • Body composition screening
  • Body mass index standards
  • Abdominal circumference measurements
  • Physical Fitness Test compliance
  • Body composition probation
  • Separation for non-compliance
  • Medical abeyances and exemptions
  • Tobacco cessation exemptions

Questions and answers

What BMI limits does the Coast Guard use for body composition screening?

The Coast Guard established the BMI standard of 19.0 (minimum) and 27.5 (maximum), regardless of age or sex. (paragraph 1)

What happens when a member exceeds the maximum screening weight?

All members who exceed their maximum screening weight are subject to a body fat assessment. (paragraph 1)

Who is responsible for conducting body composition screenings?

COs and OICs are responsible for ensuring proper body composition screenings are conducted except as noted elsewhere in this Manual (e.g. MEPS, program managers). (paragraph 3)

Must body fat measurements be conducted by someone of the same sex?

Body fat measurements must be conducted by a member of the same sex as the person being measured. (paragraph 6)

How long must members on probation wait before the initial probation BCS?

Members on probation must wait at least 30 days for initial probation BCS. (paragraph 1)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about COMDTINST 1020.8I