Body Fat Calculator
Estimate body fat percentage using U.S. Navy Method
Estimated Body Fat Percentage
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your Gender from the dropdown options.
- Measure and enter your Height accurately in centimeters.
- Measure your Neck Circumference around the narrowest point below the larynx.
- Measure your Waist Circumference horizontally around the navel level for men or narrowest point for women.
- For females, enter the Hip Circumference at the widest point around the buttocks.
- Click “Calculate Body Fat” to obtain your percentage estimate.
The Formula Used
This calculator utilizes the U.S. Navy Fitness Formula based on body tape measurements:
Men: %Fat = 86.010 × log10(Waist – Neck) – 70.041 × log10(Height) + 36.76
Women: %Fat = 163.205 × log10(Waist + Hip – Neck) – 97.684 × log10(Height) – 78.387
Women: %Fat = 163.205 × log10(Waist + Hip – Neck) – 97.684 × log10(Height) – 78.387
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How accurate is the U.S. Navy body fat method?
The U.S. Navy method provides a close estimate within 3-4% variance compared to DEXA scans when measurements are taken precisely.
What is an ideal body fat percentage for men and women?
Fitness standards generally suggest 14–17% body fat for fit men and 21–24% body fat for fit women.
Where should I measure my waist circumference?
Men should measure horizontally around the navel level, while women should measure at the narrowest waist level.
Why does the female calculation require hip measurements?
Women naturally store a larger proportion of essential body fat around hips and thighs, making hip measurement vital for accurate formulas.
How often should I recheck my body fat percentage?
Re-measuring body fat every 2 to 4 weeks provides consistent feedback without being misled by daily fluid fluctuations.