Body Fat Calculator
Estimate body fat percentage using the US Navy method
Result
How to Use
- Select your gender (male or female).
- Measure and enter your height in centimeters.
- Measure your neck circumference at the narrowest point and enter it.
- Measure your waist circumference at the narrowest point (males) or navel level (females).
- For females, also measure hip circumference at the widest point, then click 'Calculate'.
About Body Fat
US Navy Method
The US Navy circumference method estimates body fat percentage using body measurements. For males, it uses height, neck, and waist circumference. For females, it also includes hip circumference. The formula is: Male: 495/(1.0324 − 0.19077×log10(waist−neck) + 0.15456×log10(height)) − 450.
How to Measure
Measure neck at its narrowest point, below the larynx. Measure waist for males at the navel, for females at the narrowest part. Measure hips at the widest point. Use a flexible tape measure and breathe normally while measuring. Take measurements in the morning before eating for consistency.
Body Fat Categories
Essential fat is the minimum needed for survival (men 2–5%, women 10–13%). Athletes typically have 6–13% (men) or 14–20% (women). Fitness level is 14–17% (men) or 21–24% (women). Average is 18–24% (men) or 25–31% (women). Obese is 25%+ (men) or 32%+ (women).
Limitations
The US Navy method is less accurate than DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing but requires no special equipment. Accuracy can vary based on measurement technique, hydration status, and body proportions. It tends to overestimate body fat in very lean individuals and underestimate in very obese individuals.
Key Features
- Uses the validated US Navy circumference method
- Different formulas for male and female physiology
- Color-coded body fat category classification
- Shows reference ranges for all categories