Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Use our U.S. Navy body fat percentage calculator to estimate your body fat and see whether you are in the ideal range
About Body Fat

Body fat percentage is the proportion of fat relative to total body weight. It's a better indicator of fitness than BMI alone.

Body Fat Categories:

  • Men - Essential Fat: 2-6% - Necessary for normal functioning
  • Men - Athletic: 6-14% - Typical of elite athletes
  • Men - Fitness: 14-18% - Good fitness level
  • Men - Average: 18-25% - Normal range
  • Men - Above Average: 25%+ - Higher than recommended
  • Women - Essential Fat: 10-16% - Necessary for normal functioning
  • Women - Athletic: 16-21% - Typical of elite athletes
  • Women - Fitness: 21-25% - Good fitness level
  • Women - Average: 25-32% - Normal range
  • Women - Above Average: 32%+ - Higher than recommended

Measurement Tips:

  • Neck: Measure at the narrowest point, keep tape level
  • Waist: Measure at the navel level, at the narrowest point
  • Hip (women): Measure at the widest point, keep tape level
  • Take measurements while standing relaxed
  • Measure consistently at the same time of day

This calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method, which has an accuracy of 3-4%. For precise measurements, consider professional body composition testing methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.

This free body fat percentage calculator uses the U.S. Navy circumference formula to estimate how much of your weight comes from fat versus lean mass, helping you understand how to calculate body fat percentage and track progress over time.

How to calculate body fat percentage at home: use a scale and a flexible tape measure to record your weight, neck, waist and (for women) hip circumference, then enter the numbers into the calculator and tap "Calculate Body Fat" at the same time of day each week.

The Navy method is very similar to how many military and army tests calculate body fat percentage, so this tool can also help when you need to calculate body fat percentage army-style for screening or fitness standards.

The result view also acts as an ideal body fat percentage calculator by showing whether your body fat falls into essential, athletic, fitness, average or above-average ranges for your gender.

Body Fat Percentage FAQ

Why is body fat percentage more important than BMI?

Body fat percentage estimates how much of your weight comes from fat instead of muscle, bone and water, so it gives a clearer picture of your body composition than BMI, which only uses height and weight.

How accurate is this body fat percentage calculator?

This calculator uses the U.S. Navy circumference method, which typically has an accuracy of about plus or minus 3 to 4 percent when you take careful, consistent measurements.

How often should I measure my body fat percentage?

Most people only need to measure body fat percentage every 2 to 4 weeks. Day-to-day changes are mostly water weight, so focusing on longer-term trends is more helpful.