Body Fat Percentage Calculator (US Navy Method)
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How the US Navy Body Fat Formula Works
The US Navy Method is a popular algorithm used to estimate body fat percentage without the need for expensive equipment like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. It relies on specific body circumference measurements and height to estimate the volume of fat mass versus lean mass.
Accurate Measurement Tips
To get the most accurate results from this calculator, follow these measurement protocols:
- Height: Measure without shoes, standing straight against a flat wall.
- Neck: Measure below the larynx (Adam's apple), sloping slightly downward toward the front.
- Waist: For men, measure at the navel. For women, measure at the narrowest point of the natural waistline.
- Hips (Women only): Measure at the widest part of the buttocks/hips.
Standard Body Fat Categories
| Description | Women (% Fat) | Men (% Fat) |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 10-13% | 2-5% |
| Athletes | 14-20% | 6-13% |
| Fitness | 21-24% | 14-17% |
| Average | 25-31% | 18-24% |
| Obese | 32%+ | 25%+ |
Why Body Fat Matters More Than BMI
While the Body Mass Index (BMI) only looks at weight and height, the body fat percentage distinguishes between muscle and fat. An athlete might have a "high" BMI due to muscle mass, but a very low body fat percentage. Knowing your body fat helps you better understand your metabolic health and aesthetic goals.
Example Calculation
Consider a male who is 180cm tall, with a neck circumference of 40cm and a waist of 90cm. Using the Navy formula, the calculation would result in approximately 17.5% body fat, placing him in the "Fitness" category. A female with the same height, a 35cm neck, 75cm waist, and 95cm hips would result in approximately 22.8% body fat.