Body Fat Calculator
Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy Method tape measurements.
Measurements (Legacy US Navy Method)
Body Fat Percentage
Body Composition
Body Fat vs. BMI: What's the Difference?
While BMI is a simple calculation based on height and weight, Body Fat Percentage is a much more accurate indicator of fitness level. It reveals what your weight actually consists of: fat mass vs. lean muscle mass.
Why Body Composition Matters
Two people can weigh exactly the same but look completely different. A bodybuilder might be 220 lbs with 10% body fat, looking lean. A sedentary person might be 220 lbs with 35% body fat, carrying significant excess weight.
Lowering your body fat percentage while maintaining muscle (lean mass) is the key to achieving a "toned" or "athletic" physique, rather than just losing weight on the scale.
Typical Body Fat Ranges
| 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%+ |
About the Navy Method
This calculator uses the US Navy Method, which estimates body fat based on body circumference measurements. While less accurate than a DEXA scan or hydrostatic weighing, it is widely considered the best method for home measurement, with an accuracy rate of within 3-4% for most people.