How accurate is the US Navy method?

Within ±3-4% compared to DEXA scans. Better for tracking trends than absolute numbers. Use the same measurer for consistency.

Healthy body fat by sex?

Men: essential 2-5%, athletes 6-13%, fitness 14-17%, average 18-24%, obese 25%+. Women: essential 10-13%, athletes 14-20%, fitness 21-24%, average 25-31%, obese 32%+.

Health

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat percentage using the US Navy circumference method — a tape measure is all you need. Includes category, lean mass, and target weights.

Sex

Units

Age

Weight

Height

Neck circumference

Just below the larynx, tape level.

Hip circumference

Women only — widest point.

Waist circumference

Men: at navel. Women: narrowest point.

How to measure

Use a flexible tape measure, level with the floor
Neck: just below the Adam's apple, tape flat
Waist (men): at navel level, exhale normally
Waist (women): at narrowest point
Hips (women): widest point over buttocks
Take 3 measurements and average them
Same measurer = consistent results

Frequently asked questions

Accuracy?

±3-4% vs DEXA. Better for trends than absolute numbers.

Healthy body fat?

Men: 10-20% fitness. Women: 18-25% fitness.