CalKit

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat percentage using the US Navy method.

cm
cm
cm
체지방률 (US Navy)
보통
23.5%

상세 정보

체지방률23.5%
제지방률76.5%
판정보통
성별남성
175 cm
허리둘레85 cm
목둘레38 cm

Overview

The Body Fat Calculator uses the U.S. Navy body fat estimation formula, which derives body fat percentage from waist, neck, and (for women) hip circumference measurements along with height. Healthy body fat ranges are generally 10-20% for men and 18-28% for women.

Formula

Men: BF% = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 × log10(waist - neck) + 0.15456 × log10(height)) - 450 | Women: BF% = 495 / (1.29579 - 0.35004 × log10(waist + hip - neck) + 0.22100 × log10(height)) - 450

How to Use

  1. 1Select your sex.
  2. 2Enter your height in centimeters.
  3. 3Enter your neck and waist circumference in centimeters.
  4. 4Women: enter hip circumference as well.
  5. 5Click 'Calculate' to see your estimated body fat percentage.

Examples

Male — Waist 85 cm, Neck 38 cm, Height 175 cm

Estimating body fat for a 175 cm male with 85 cm waist and 38 cm neck circumference

SexMale
Height175 cm
Waist85 cm
Neck38 cm
ResultBody fat approx. 18.5% (healthy range for men: 10–20%)

Female — Waist 70 cm, Neck 32 cm, Hip 95 cm, Height 163 cm

Estimating body fat for a 163 cm female with 70 cm waist, 32 cm neck, and 95 cm hip

SexFemale
Height163 cm
Waist70 cm
Neck32 cm
Hip95 cm
ResultBody fat approx. 25.2% (healthy range for women: 18–28%)

Background

The U.S. Navy body fat estimation formula was developed by Hodgdon and Beckett in 1984, providing a reasonable body fat estimate using only a tape measure. Men require waist and neck measurements, while women need waist, neck, and hip measurements. Healthy body fat ranges are 10-20% for men and 18-28% for women; exceeding these ranges increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions. More precise measurements are available through medical assessments such as DEXA scans and hydrostatic weighing.

Tips

  • Measure waist circumference at navel height and neck circumference at the narrowest point.
  • Keep the tape snug against the skin but not compressed.
  • This formula provides an estimate; for precise measurement, consider a DEXA scan or hydrostatic weighing.
  • Always consult a healthcare professional for medical assessments.

FAQ

Q. Is lower body fat always better?

No. Extremely low body fat can cause hormonal imbalances, weakened immunity, and other health problems. Essential fat minimums are about 5% for men and 12% for women.

Q. Which is more accurate: BMI or body fat percentage?

Body fat percentage directly measures fat proportion and is generally more useful for health assessment. BMI cannot distinguish between muscle and fat mass.

Q. Can I accurately measure body fat at home?

Home bioelectrical impedance (BIA) scales can vary with hydration levels. The Navy formula using a tape measure provides a reasonably accurate estimate without special equipment.

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