U.S. Navy Body Fat Calculator
Male
Female
Your Estimated Body Fat:
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How the U.S. Navy Body Fat Calculator Works
The U.S. Navy Body Fat Calculator uses a specific formula developed by the Naval Health Research Center to estimate an individual's body fat percentage. Unlike BMI, which only considers height and weight, this method uses circumference measurements to differentiate between lean mass and adipose tissue (fat).
Required Measurements for Accuracy
To get an accurate reading, you should measure using a soft tape measure on bare skin. Ensure the tape is level and snug, but not compressing the skin:
- Height: Measured without shoes, standing straight.
- Neck: Measured just 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 part of the abdomen.
- Hips (Women only): Measured at the widest part of the buttocks/hips.
Example Calculation
A male standing 70 inches tall (5'10") with a 36-inch waist and a 16-inch neck would have a body fat percentage of approximately 19.5%. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), this falls within the "Fitness" category.
Body Fat Categories for Men and Women
| 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 Percentage Matters More Than Weight
Focusing solely on the scale can be misleading. A person can lose body fat while gaining muscle, resulting in no change in total weight despite a significant improvement in health and appearance. By tracking body fat percentage, you can ensure that your fitness regimen is actually reducing fat rather than burning off valuable muscle tissue.