Body Fat Calculator
Get a reliable estimate of your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy Method.
Why Calculate Body Fat?
Body fat percentage is a more accurate measure of health and fitness than Body Mass Index (BMI). While BMI only considers your weight relative to your height, body fat percentage tells you how much of your total weight is fat versus lean mass (muscle, bone, etc.). A healthy body fat percentage is crucial for managing your weight and reducing the risk of health issues.
Our Body Fat Calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method, a trusted and widely used formula that provides a quick and accurate estimation of your body fat percentage. It only requires a few simple measurements to get a meaningful result.
Body Fat Categories
- Essential Fat: The minimum amount of fat necessary for physical health.
- Athletes: A healthy range for highly active individuals.
- Fitness: An ideal range for a fit and healthy body.
- Acceptable: A safe and healthy range for the general population.
- Obesity: A range that may increase the risk of health problems.
Trusted Source: For evidence-based guidelines on body fat standards, refer to the American Council on Exercise (ACE) guidelines.
Calculate Your Body Fat
Frequently Asked Questions
This calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method, which relies on a simple tape measure test. Other methods include using skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) scales, or advanced lab-based techniques like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. Each method has a different level of accuracy and cost.
Body fat percentage is generally considered a more comprehensive health metric than BMI because it directly measures body composition. It accounts for the fact that muscle is denser than fat. Therefore, a very muscular person may have a high BMI but a very healthy body fat percentage.
While the exact ranges can vary, a body fat percentage below the "essential fat" category can be dangerous for your health. A body fat percentage in the "obese" category is also a risk factor for several chronic diseases. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine your ideal range.
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