Load Bearing Calculator
Calculate recommended pack weight limits and weight distribution for march planning based on body weight, fitness, terrain, and conditions.
Inputs
Results
Recommended Pack Weight
19.2 kg
≈ 10 bags of sugar
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter soldier body weight (kg or lbs) and select fitness level: Average, Good, or Excellent.
- Set the march distance and select terrain type: Paved Road, Trail, or Cross-Country.
- Review the maximum recommended load weight and estimated march time.
- Use the load limit outputs to ensure mission loads do not exceed the safe carry weight threshold.
- Adjust kit configuration to stay within recommended limits while maintaining mission capability.
How the result changes with Body Weight
| Body Weight | Recommended Pack Weight |
|---|---|
| 51 | 12.2 kg |
| 79 | 19 kg |
| 112 | 26.9 kg |
| 139 | 33.4 kg |
What each input means
- Body Weight
- Your body weight in kilograms.
- Fitness Level
- Overall physical fitness and conditioning level.
- March Distance
- Total distance of the planned march.
- Terrain Type
- Type of terrain for the march.
- Temperature
- Expected ambient temperature.
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input Parameters4 parametersBody Weight = 80, Fitness Level = 1, March Distance = 15, Terrain Type = 1 = 5 input(s) provided
- Calculate Recommended Pack WeightRecommended Pack Weight19.2 = 19.2
- Calculate Load as % of Body WeightLoad as % of Body Weight24 = 24
- Calculate Absolute Max LoadAbsolute Max Load36 = 36
Engine last updated . Checked against 2 independently-derived tests — how we verify calculators.
Related Calculators
The questions that sit next to this one — chosen by subject, including calculators filed under a different category.
Pace Count Calculator
Calculate paces per 100 meters from stride length adjusted for terrain type and slope. Plan land navigation with pace beads.
Military PlanningMap Reading Calculator
Calculate distance and azimuth between two grid coordinates. Convert between map distance and ground distance using map scale.
Military PlanningAmmunition Expenditure Calculator
Calculate round count planning for training and mission scenarios from personnel count, rate of engagement, and duration.
More in Military & Defence Planning.