Body Fat Percentage Calculator
Estimate body fat percentage with the U.S. Navy method using tape measurements and track fitness progress.
How to Measure and Calculate Body Fat
Select your unit system, enter age, weight, height, and circumference measurements, then clickCalculate Body Fat. Men provide neck and waist measurements, while women add hip circumference for greater accuracy.
Use a flexible tape measure, keeping it level around each body part. The calculator converts metric inputs and returns your percentage along with a category highlighting how the result compares to population norms.
Interpreting Body Fat Categories
The tool classifies results into essential fat, athletic, fitness, average, and obese ranges for both men and women. These categories help you understand where you fall relative to general health guidelines.
Essential fat percentages keep your body functioning, while athletic ranges are common for competitive performers. Average levels are typical for the general population; values above average may signal increased health risks.
Using Body Fat Data Responsibly
Monitor changes over time to track training or nutrition progress. Combine body fat measurements with BMI, waist circumference, and strength metrics for a comprehensive view of your wellness journey.
Remember that hydration, measuring technique, and posture can influence results. Take readings at the same time of day and consult healthcare professionals if you need medically precise assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What method does this body fat calculator use?
It implements the U.S. Navy circumference formula, which estimates body fat percentage based on height and body measurements.
How accurate is the U.S. Navy method?
It offers a reliable estimate for everyday use, but laboratory tests like DEXA or hydrostatic weighing provide higher precision. Use this tool for tracking trends rather than medical diagnosis.
Why do men and women enter different measurements?
Female calculations include hip circumference to account for natural fat distribution differences. Both formulas adjust for anatomical variations between genders.