Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Body Fat Percentage Formula (Navy Method):

\[ \text{Body Fat %} = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 \times \log_{10}(\text{waist} - \text{neck}) + 0.15456 \times \log_{10}(\text{height})) - 450 \]

Gender:

Height:

inches

Neck Circumference:

inches

Waist Circumference:

inches

Hip Circumference (Women Only):

inches

Body Fat Percentage:

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1. What is a Body Fat Percentage Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates body fat percentage based on body measurements using the U.S. Navy method.

Purpose: It helps individuals track fitness progress and health metrics more accurately than BMI alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses different formulas for men and women:

For Men:
\[ 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 \times \log_{10}(\text{waist} - \text{neck}) + 0.15456 \times \log_{10}(\text{height})) - 450 \]

For Women:
\[ 495 / (1.29579 - 0.35004 \times \log_{10}(\text{waist} + \text{hip} - \text{neck}) + 0.22100 \times \log_{10}(\text{height})) - 450 \]

Explanation: The formulas use logarithmic relationships between body measurements to estimate body fat percentage.

3. Importance of Body Fat Percentage

Details: Body fat percentage is a better health indicator than weight alone, helping assess fitness levels and health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Measure circumference at the narrowest point for neck and natural waist
For women, measure hips at the widest point
Measure in the morning before eating for consistency

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this method?
A: The Navy method is about ±3% accurate compared to professional methods like DEXA scans.

Q2: What's a healthy body fat percentage?
A: For men: 6-24%, Women: 16-30%, varying by age and fitness level.

Q3: Why different formulas for men and women?
A: Women naturally carry more body fat, especially in hip areas.

Q4: How often should I measure?
A: Every 2-4 weeks to track progress, as daily changes are minimal.

Q5: Can I use metric measurements?
A: This calculator uses inches; convert cm to inches by dividing by 2.54.