Body Fat Percentage Categories
Body fat percentage is the proportion of your total body weight that consists of fat. Unlike BMI, it directly measures body composition and gives a clearer picture of health risks.
Body Fat % Classifications
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2–5% | 10–13% |
| Athletes | 6–13% | 14–20% |
| Fitness | 14–17% | 21–24% |
| Average | 18–24% | 25–31% |
| Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ |
How the US Navy Method Works
The US Navy circumference method uses measurements of height, neck, waist (and hips for women) to estimate body fat percentage. It was developed as a practical field method that doesn't require special equipment.
Men: %BF = 495 / (1.0324 − 0.19077×log(waist−neck) + 0.15456×log(height)) − 450
Women: %BF = 495 / (1.29579 − 0.35004×log(waist+hip−neck) + 0.22100×log(height)) − 450
Women: %BF = 495 / (1.29579 − 0.35004×log(waist+hip−neck) + 0.22100×log(height)) − 450