Good and Bad News...

A

anonymousgoat

10-Year Member
5-Year Member
Joined
Apr 14, 2009
Messages
31
Today I got a LOA in the mailbox today, which I extremely excited about. :redface: I also got a letter stating that I do not meet height and weight standards and would be disqualified if I could not meet them by April 15. :frown: A minimum BMI of 19 is required, which means I need to gain just over ten pounds between now and then. I was actually pretty surprised, because I had never heard of someone being disqualified for being too skinny. I am just wondering if anyone has any advice for gaining weight and staying in shape (I like to run long distance and I still need to take the CFA). I'm determined not to get stopped by this.
 
Congrats on the LoA. I have a couple of suggestions. First of all, and most importantly, go to the DoDMERB section of this forum and find the email for Larry Mullens and email him your name, last four of your SSN and your issue at hand. He is very helpful!!! Second consider making an appt with your personal doctor to discuss healthy weight gain strategies, they may suggest referral to nutritionist.
 
If you don't meet the BMI standards then body fat percentage will be measured. At least that's how it works if the index shows you are overweight. I wouldn't be too concerned if you are in shape, the academy will see that. If you want to gain weight just work out and get your proteins. Do strenght training to build some muscle. Running won't build muscle nearly as quickly although you should do both.

Again, don't worry. If you are fit, the academy will see it.
 
anonymousgoat:

I know a Cadet who was in your shoes two years ago. She worked with her Regional Commander who suggested that she find a personal trainer.
She did and developed a workout program that would increase her muscle mass and weight while working out. She did lose weight during Beast but the monitor that and give those who need it extra calories.

I suggest you talk to your Regional Commander. I don't know if waivers are readily available for being underweight. The weight standards are for the Army but also for West Point. It is very important that you show up for Beast being able to handle the physical demands. This includes making weight so you don't have problems if you should lose weight over the summer.
Not making weight can prevent you from receiving an appointment and while at the Academy can cause you to go before a Medical Board. Please take this seriously.
Believe me - West Point issued you an LOA, they want you to come. So don't hesitate to call Admissions. They can help you.
 
Good and Bad News

How did I know this was coming, lol...its a good sequence...will anyone here argue that?

And I didnt mention it by name, give me a break
 
Dude you have plenty of time to gain weight. Considering you are an ectomorph you could probably gain 10 lbs in about 2 months minimum. You should consider going to the gym and setting up a routine every week. Also with that you should try to eat about 6 meals a day (consisting of 40:40 g of protein and carbs per meal). If you want to run, try not run every day for too long. Maybe 3-4 times a week max. Anyways I used be really skinny as well. About 1 month into weight lifting I gained about 8 - 10 lbs, and I'm an ectomorph as well. For any tips on how to effectively gain muscle at the gym look for articles in http://bodybuilding.com. Anyways good luck, and don't worry is very achievable. :thumb:
 
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