Body Fat Calculator
Calculate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method. Enter your measurements to find your fat mass, lean mass, and fitness category.
About the Body Fat Calculator
This calculator uses the US Navy circumference method, one of the most widely used field techniques for estimating body fat without special equipment. The formula relies on key circumference measurements — waist, neck, and hip (for women) — combined with height to predict the percentage of total body weight that consists of fat tissue. Unlike BMI, which only accounts for total weight relative to height, the Navy method provides a more nuanced picture by distinguishing between fat and lean tissue.
Understanding your body fat percentage can help you set realistic fitness goals. Knowing your lean mass is especially useful for calculating protein and calorie targets — tools like our Lean Body Mass Calculator let you compare multiple formulas side by side. For weight management goals, pairing body fat tracking with a Calorie Calculator helps you target fat loss while preserving muscle.
Body fat categories differ by sex because women naturally carry more essential fat for hormonal and reproductive functions. The essential fat threshold is approximately 2–5% for men and 10–13% for women. Athletic ranges sit above those thresholds, while "acceptable" body fat still indicates a relatively healthy composition. Values in the obese range are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
Body Fat Categories
Men
- Essential Fat: <6%
- Athletes: 6–13%
- Fitness: 14–17%
- Acceptable: 18–24%
- Obese: >24%
Women
- Essential Fat: <14%
- Athletes: 14–20%
- Fitness: 21–24%
- Acceptable: 25–31%
- Obese: >31%
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For a related calculation, use Army Body Fat Calculator to calculate body fat percentage per US Army Regulation 600-9 and check if you meet Army standards. Alternatively, use BMI Calculator to calculate your Body Mass Index and determine if you're at a healthy weight.