The Real Problem This Solves
The weighing scale lies. Two people at the same weight can look completely different, one lean, one not, because fat and muscle weigh differently.
Body fat percentage tells the real story of your composition. This calculator estimates it from simple measurements.
How Body Fat Is Estimated
This uses the US Navy method, estimating body fat from tape measurements of your neck, waist (and hips for women) relative to height. Surprisingly reliable for a no-equipment method.
Example: Arjun is 175 cm with an 85 cm waist and 38 cm neck. The formula estimates his body fat at around 20%, within the "average" range for men.
| Category (Men) | Body Fat % | Category (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| Athletes | 6-13% | 14-20% |
| Fitness | 14-17% | 21-24% |
| Average | 18-24% | 25-31% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the US Navy method?
It gives a reasonable estimate for most people, though less precise than a DEXA scan. Consistent, accurate tape measurements improve reliability.
What is a healthy body fat percentage?
Roughly 14-24% for men and 21-31% for women is considered healthy. Athletes are often lower.
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