Body Fat Percentage Calculator

What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body Fat Percentage is a measure of body composition that represents the proportion of fat tissue in your body relative to lean tissue (muscles, bones, organs, etc.). It's an important indicator of overall health and fitness, providing more insight than weight alone or Body Mass Index (BMI).

The U.S. Navy Method for Body Fat Calculation

This calculator uses the U.S. Navy method to estimate body fat percentage. The formulas are:

For men:

\[Body Fat \% = 86.010 \times \log_{10}(waist - neck) - 70.041 \times \log_{10}(height) + 36.76\]

For women:

\[Body Fat \% = 163.205 \times \log_{10}(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684 \times \log_{10}(height) - 78.387\]

Where all measurements are in centimeters.

How to Take Measurements

1. Height: Stand straight against a wall, without shoes.
2. Neck: Measure around the neck at the narrowest point, usually just below the larynx (Adam's apple).
3. Waist: Measure around the waist at the navel, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
4. Hip (for women): Measure around the hips at the widest point.

Body Fat Percentage 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%+

Limitations and Considerations

• This method provides an estimate and may not be as accurate as other methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.
• Results can be affected by factors like hydration level, recent exercise, and measurement errors.
• It may not be suitable for all body types, particularly very muscular individuals or those with unusual fat distributions.
• For medical concerns or precise measurements, consult with a healthcare professional.