Body Fat Percentage Calculator
Estimate your body composition using the US Navy Fitness Method.
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Female
Your Estimated Body Fat
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Understanding Body Fat Percentage
Body fat percentage is the total mass of fat divided by total body mass, multiplied by 100. Unlike Body Mass Index (BMI), which only uses height and weight, body fat percentage accounts for the distinction between muscle mass and fat mass, making it a more accurate health indicator for athletes and active individuals.
The US Navy Method Explained
The US Navy Method is a widely used formula developed by the Naval Health Research Center. It provides an estimate of body fat by measuring the circumferences of various body parts. While DEXA scans are the gold standard, this method is surprisingly accurate (within 3-4% margin of error) and requires only a measuring tape.
Measurement Tips for Accuracy:
- Neck: Measure below the larynx (Adam's apple), sloping slightly downward to the front.
- Waist (Men): Measure horizontally at the navel level.
- Waist (Women): Measure at the narrowest point of the abdomen (usually above the navel).
- Hips (Women only): Measure at the widest point of the buttocks.
- Height: Measure without shoes, standing straight against a wall.
Body Fat Percentage Categories (ACE Chart)
| Description | Women (%) | Men (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 10-13% | 2-5% |
| Athletes | 14-20% | 6-13% |
| Fitness | 21-24% | 14-17% |
| Average | 25-31% | 18-24% |
| Obese | 32%+ | 25%+ |
Calculation Example
For a male with a height of 180cm, a waist of 90cm, and a neck of 40cm:
The formula uses logarithmic calculations: 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 * log10(waist - neck) + 0.15456 * log10(height)) - 450. In this scenario, the estimated body fat would be approximately 18.5%, placing him in the "Average" fitness category.