A simple, free body fat calculator to estimate your body fat percentage and understand what it means for your health. Calculate your body fat in seconds using the U.S. Navy Method.
Body fat percentage is the amount of fat mass in your body compared to your total body mass. Unlike BMI, which only considers height and weight, body fat percentage directly measures the composition of your body, providing a more accurate picture of your health and fitness.
The U.S. Navy Method used in this calculator estimates body fat percentage using circumference measurements at specific body sites. While not as precise as methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing, it provides a reasonably accurate estimate that's useful for tracking changes over time.
| Category | Men | Women | Health Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2-5% | 10-13% | Minimum needed for basic physiological functions |
| Athletic | 6-13% | 14-20% | Typical for elite athletes, excellent fitness level |
| Fitness | 14-17% | 21-24% | Lean, visibly defined muscles, good fitness level |
| Average | 18-24% | 25-31% | Typical for the general population, moderate health risk |
| Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ | Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues |
*Used for health score calculation
Enter your measurements to see your body composition analysis
Note: These tips are general recommendations. Always consult with healthcare professionals before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
Measurement Tips: For the most accurate results, have someone else take your measurements if possible. Take each measurement 2-3 times and use the average. Measure at the same time of day each time, preferably in the morning before eating.
| Method | Accuracy | Accessibility | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEXA Scan | Very High (±1-2%) | Medical facilities only | $$$ |
| Hydrostatic Weighing | High (±2-3%) | Specialized facilities | $$$ |
| Bod Pod | High (±2-3%) | Specialized facilities | $$$ |
| Bioelectrical Impedance | Moderate (±3-5%) | Home scales, handheld devices | $ |
| Skinfold Calipers | Moderate (±3-5%) | Fitness professionals | $ |
| Navy Method (this calculator) | Moderate (±3-4%) | Anywhere with a tape measure | Free |
| BMI | Low (not a body fat measure) | Anywhere | Free |
Our Body Fat Calculator allows you to estimate your body fat percentage based on your measurements. It helps you understand your body composition and track changes in your fitness journey.
Enter your gender, height, weight, and body measurements (neck, waist, and hip for women). The calculator uses the U.S. Navy Method to estimate your body fat percentage and provides a category classification.
For men, 6-13% is considered athletic, 14-17% is fitness, 18-24% is average, and 25%+ is obese. For women, 14-20% is athletic, 21-24% is fitness, 25-31% is average, and 32%+ is obese. Essential fat is 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women.
The Navy Method provides a reasonable estimate with an error margin of about 3-4%. While not as precise as methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing, it's more accurate than BMI and provides a good reference point for tracking changes over time.
Measure your neck at the narrowest point, just below the Adam's apple. Measure your waist at navel level while standing relaxed. For women, measure hips at the widest point around the buttocks. Use a flexible measuring tape and don't pull it too tight.
Yes, we take data security seriously. Your measurements and information are processed locally in your browser and never sent to our servers. This ensures complete privacy and security of your information.
For most people, measuring once every 4-6 weeks is sufficient to track changes. Body composition changes gradually, and measuring too frequently might lead to frustration due to normal daily fluctuations.