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Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Estimate body fat from tape measurements with the U.S. Navy circumference method.

Live estimate

Your inputs

Enter your measurements

Units
Formula

Uses the circumference-based U.S. Navy method. Tape placement and body shape can materially affect the estimate.

Estimated body fat

16.7%

MethodNavy circumference
Waist to height47.2%
Measurement systemUS / imperial
Measurement tipUse a flexible, level tape

Measure consistently without compressing the skin, ideally under the same conditions each time.

About this tool

Estimate body fat with circumference measurements

The circumference method estimates body fat from height and specific tape measurements. It is accessible and useful for tracking, but it is less direct than laboratory techniques and depends heavily on consistent measurement.

This implementation uses separate U.S. Navy equations for male and female profiles. Measure with a flexible tape held level and without compressing the skin, then repeat under similar conditions when comparing changes.

How it works

Estimate body fat in three steps

  1. 1Choose formula and units

    Select the applicable equation and metric or US measurements.

  2. 2Take measurements

    Enter height, neck, waist, and hip when required.

  3. 3Review the estimate

    Use the percentage as one general tracking point, not a diagnosis.

Common questions

Body Fat Percentage Calculator FAQ

How accurate is the Navy method?

It is a field estimate. Tape placement, body shape, and measurement technique can create meaningful error.

Why is a hip measurement requested for one formula?

The female-profile Navy equation uses waist, hip, neck, and height; the male-profile equation uses waist, neck, and height.

How should I measure?

Use a flexible tape held level, keep it snug without compressing skin, and repeat measurements consistently.

References

Sources & references

This tool is informational and is not a substitute for professional medical or financial advice. Its methodology draws on the primary sources below.