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Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method with simple body measurements.

This calculator uses the US Navy body fat formula, a well-validated method that estimates body fat percentage from simple circumference measurements. It's used by the military for fitness assessments and correlates well with more expensive methods like DEXA scans.

For men, the formula uses waist, neck, and height measurements. For women, hip circumference is also included because women naturally carry more fat in the hip area. All measurements should be taken at the widest or most prominent points.

Healthy body fat ranges differ by gender. For men: 6-13% is athletic, 14-17% is fit, and 18-24% is average. For women: 14-20% is athletic, 21-24% is fit, and 25-31% is average. Essential fat (the minimum needed for health) is about 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women.

While this method is convenient and reasonably accurate, it has limitations. It may underestimate body fat in very muscular individuals and overestimate it in older adults. For the most precise measurement, consider a DEXA scan, hydrostatic weighing, or a professional caliper assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is the US Navy body fat method?
Studies show it's accurate within about 3-4% for most people compared to DEXA scans. It's most accurate for individuals with average body compositions. Very muscular or very obese individuals may see larger errors.
Where exactly should I measure?
Waist: at the navel for men, at the narrowest point for women. Neck: just below the larynx (Adam's apple), sloping slightly downward. Hip (women only): at the widest point of the buttocks. Measure on bare skin, not over clothing.
What is a healthy body fat percentage?
For men: 10-20% is generally healthy, with athletes at 6-13%. For women: 18-28% is healthy, with athletes at 14-20%. Essential fat minimums are 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women — going below these levels is dangerous.
Body Fat Percentage Calculator
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