Body Fat Percentage Calculator & Formula

Body Fat Percentage Calculator














Body Fat Percentage Formula

The body fat percentage formula varies slightly by gender. This calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method, which is widely accepted for estimating body fat percentage:

For Males:

Body Fat Percentage = 86.01 × log ( Waist – Neck ) − 70.041 × log ( Height ) + 36.76

For Females:

Body Fat Percentage = 163.205 × log ( Waist + Hip – Neck ) − 97.684 × log ( Height ) − 78.387

Where:

  • Waist: Circumference of the waist (inches or cm).
  • Neck: Circumference of the neck (inches or cm).
  • Height: Height of the individual (inches or cm).
  • Hip: Circumference of the hips (for females only, inches or cm).

Explanation

Body fat percentage is an estimate of how much of your weight is fat compared to lean tissue, like muscles, bones, and organs. A lower body fat percentage generally indicates a healthier body composition, though this varies with age and gender. This calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method, which is accurate for estimating body fat in both males and females.

Real-Life Example

For a 30-year-old male weighing 180 lbs, with a height of 70 inches, waist circumference of 34 inches, and neck circumference of 16 inches:

Step 1: Apply the male body fat formula:
Body Fat % = 86.01 × log10(34 – 16) – 70.041 × log10(70) + 36.76

Step 2: Calculate each part and sum up the values. Result = ~15.3% Body Fat

Benchmark Indicators

Here are typical body fat percentage ranges by age and gender:

Healthy Range: Male: 6% – 24%, Female: 14% – 31%

Average: Male: 18% – 24%, Female: 25% – 31%

Above Average: Male: 25%+, Female: 32%+

Frequently Asked Questions

What is body fat percentage?

Body fat percentage is a measurement of how much of your total weight is fat. It provides a clearer picture of body composition and overall health than weight alone.

Why is body fat percentage important?

Body fat percentage helps assess health risks, as higher body fat levels are linked to obesity-related health issues. Maintaining a healthy body fat percentage is associated with lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.

How can I reduce body fat percentage?

Reducing body fat requires a combination of regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and good sleep. Cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and healthy eating are effective strategies for fat loss.

Is body fat percentage the same as BMI?

No, BMI (Body Mass Index) only uses weight and height and does not differentiate between muscle and fat. Body fat percentage directly measures fat mass, making it a more accurate assessment of body composition.

What body fat percentage is considered healthy?

Healthy body fat percentages differ by gender. For males, 6-24% is considered healthy, while for females, 14-31% is in the healthy range. Optimal levels vary by age and personal health goals.


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