FreeOnlineCal

How to calculate Body Fat Percentage?

The Body Fat Calculator estimates your body fat percentage based on the U.S. Navy method, which uses specific body measurements. This method provides a quick and convenient way to assess body composition without specialized equipment.

Formulas:

For Men: Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 * LOG10(waist - neck) + 0.15456 * LOG10(height)) - 450

For Women: Body Fat % = 495 / (1.29579 - 0.35004 * LOG10(waist + hip - neck) + 0.22100 * LOG10(height)) - 450

Where measurements are in centimeters.

Using the Body Fat Calculator: An Example

Let's calculate the body fat percentage for a male individual with the following measurements:

Step-by-step calculation:

• Gender: Male
• Age: 30 years
• Weight: 75 kg
• Height: 175 cm
• Neck Circumference: 39 cm
• Waist Circumference: 88 cm
• Hip Circumference: 90 cm (not used for males in calculation)

Using the formula for men:

Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 * LOG10(88 - 39) + 0.15456 * LOG10(175)) - 450

Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 * LOG10(49) + 0.15456 * LOG10(175)) - 450

Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 * 1.6902 + 0.15456 * 2.2430) - 450

Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.3225 + 0.3467) - 450

Body Fat % = 495 / 1.0566 - 450

Body Fat % = 468.48 - 450

Body Fat % ≈ 18.48%

Body Fat Categories

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How accurate is this calculator?
   This calculator uses the U.S. Navy body fat formula, which is a widely accepted method for estimating body fat percentage using simple measurements. While it provides a good estimate, it may not be as precise as clinical methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.
2. Why are hip measurements needed for women but not men?
   The U.S. Navy formula incorporates hip measurements for women because women typically store more fat in their hip and thigh areas compared to men, making it a relevant factor for a more accurate estimation.
3. What is a healthy body fat percentage?
   A healthy body fat percentage varies by age and gender. Generally, for men, 18-24% is considered acceptable, and for women, 25-31% is acceptable. Athletes typically have lower percentages. Refer to the Body Fat Categories table for more details.
4. Can I use inches instead of centimeters?
   This calculator is designed for centimeter inputs. For accurate results, please convert your measurements to centimeters before entering them.