Body Fat Percentage Formulas:
Navy Method (Men):
%Fat = 86.010×log10(abdomen - neck) - 70.041×log10(height) + 36.76
Navy Method (Women):
%Fat = 163.205×log10(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684×log10(height) - 78.387
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator estimates body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy method based on body circumference measurements.
Purpose: It helps individuals assess their body composition more accurately than BMI alone.
The calculator uses different formulas for men and women:
For Men:
%Fat = 86.010×log10(abdomen - neck) - 70.041×log10(height) + 36.76
For Women:
%Fat = 163.205×log10(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684×log10(height) - 78.387
Explanation: These formulas account for differences in fat distribution between genders.
Details: Body fat percentage is a better indicator of health than weight alone, helping assess fitness progress and health risks.
Tips:
Q1: How accurate is this method?
A: The Navy method is about ±3% accurate compared to more advanced methods like DEXA scans.
Q2: Why different formulas for men and women?
A: Women naturally carry more body fat and distribute it differently than men.
Q3: What's a healthy body fat percentage?
A: For men: 8-19% (athletes), 20-24% (fitness), 25%+ (obese). For women: 21-33% (athletes), 24-30% (fitness), 31%+ (obese).
Q4: How often should I measure?
A: Every 4-8 weeks to track progress, as daily fluctuations are normal.
Q5: Can I use this if I'm very muscular?
A: This method may overestimate body fat for extremely muscular individuals.