How accurate is the US Navy body fat method?

The US Navy method is accurate within 3-4% of DEXA scans when measurements are taken correctly. It is more accurate than BMI for athletic builds and the elderly.

What is a healthy body fat percentage?

Healthy ranges: Men 10-20%, Women 18-28%. Athletes often range 6-13% (men) / 14-20% (women). Above 25% (men) or 32% (women) increases metabolic risk.

Where do I measure waist for the body fat calculator?

Measure waist at the navel (belly button), exhaling normally, with tape parallel to the floor. For neck, measure just below the larynx (Adam's apple).

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method — the most accurate without clinical equipment.

Sex

Height (cm)

Neck (cm)

Waist (cm, at navel)

About the US Navy body fat method

Developed by the US Naval Health Research Center, this method uses circumference measurements to estimate body fat with ~3-4% accuracy. It is more accurate than BMI for athletic builds and elderly.

For accurate measurement: Use a soft tape, measure against bare skin, exhale before measuring waist, and keep tape parallel to floor.

Healthy ranges: Men 10-20%, Women 18-28%.

Body Fat Calculator

Get a targeted fat-loss plan based on your body composition

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