🏃 Body Fat % Calculator (US Navy Method)
Measure at the widest point. All measurements in cm.
Measure at the widest point. All measurements in cm.
Body Fat Categories
| Category | 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%+ |
⚠️ The US Navy method is an estimation. DEXA scan or hydrostatic weighing provide more accurate results. Consult a healthcare provider for personal guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
This calculator uses the US Navy method, which requires circumference measurements at the waist, neck, and (for women) hips. The formula was developed by the US Navy for quick field assessment and is accurate within 3–4% for most people.
For men: Essential fat 2–5%, Athletes 6–13%, Fitness 14–17%, Average 18–24%, Obese 25%+. For women: Essential fat 10–13%, Athletes 14–20%, Fitness 21–24%, Average 25–31%, Obese 32%+. Women naturally carry more essential fat due to hormonal functions.
Body fat percentage is a more direct measure of body composition than BMI. BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so a muscular athlete might be 'overweight' by BMI but have excellent body fat percentage. For body composition assessment, body fat % is more informative.
Common methods include: skinfold calipers (moderate accuracy), circumference measurements like this US Navy method (moderate accuracy), smart scales using bioelectrical impedance (variable accuracy), and DEXA scan (most accurate but requires medical facility).