Body Fat Calculator
Enter your values below and click Calculate for instant results.
lbs
in
in
in
Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method. Enter waist, neck, and hip measurements for an instant result.
Enter your values below and click Calculate for instant results.
This calculator uses the US Navy method, one of the most widely validated body fat estimation techniques that does not require specialized equipment. It uses circumference measurements at specific body sites to estimate body density, which correlates with body fat percentage. While not as precise as DEXA scanning or hydrostatic weighing, it is accurate enough for general fitness tracking and health assessment.
Body fat percentage is generally a more meaningful health indicator than BMI because it directly measures the ratio of fat to lean mass rather than using weight as a proxy. Two people with identical BMIs can have very different body compositions and health profiles.
For men, essential fat needed for basic physiological function is around 3 to 5%. Athletic men typically fall in the 6 to 13% range, fitness-focused men in the 14 to 17% range, and average adults in the 18 to 24% range. Above 25% is generally classified as obese for men. For women, these thresholds are higher across the board because women naturally carry more essential fat: essential is 10 to 13%, athletic is 14 to 20%, fitness is 21 to 24%, average is 25 to 31%, and above 32% is classified as obese.
For the best results, measure at the same time of day each time, ideally in the morning before eating. Use a flexible measuring tape held snugly but not compressing the skin. The waist measurement should be taken at the navel level. For women, the hip measurement should be taken at the widest point of the hips and buttocks. Take two or three measurements and average them for consistency.