1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the proportion of fat in your body compared to your total body weight. It's a more accurate indicator of health than BMI alone, as it distinguishes between fat and muscle mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( BMI \) — Body Mass Index (kg/m²)
• \( Age \) — Age in years
• 10.8 — Constant for males
• 5.4 — Constant for females

Explanation: This equation provides a simple method to estimate body fat percentage using commonly available measurements (BMI and age) with gender-specific adjustments.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Knowing your body fat percentage helps assess health risks, track fitness progress, and set appropriate weight management goals. High body fat is associated with increased risk of chronic diseases.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMI (calculate it first if needed), age in years, and select your gender. For accurate results, use a recently measured BMI value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This provides a reasonable estimate, but more accurate methods include skinfold measurements, DEXA scans, or bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Q2: What are healthy body fat percentages?
A: For men: 6-24% (athletes 6-13%, fitness 14-17%, average 18-24%). For women: 16-30% (athletes 14-20%, fitness 21-24%, average 25-30%).

Q3: Why does age factor into body fat percentage?
A: As people age, they tend to lose muscle mass and gain fat, even if weight remains stable.

Q4: Can I use this if I'm very muscular?
A: This equation may overestimate body fat for very muscular individuals as it doesn't account for muscle mass specifically.

Q5: How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
A: For tracking changes, every 4-8 weeks is sufficient as body composition changes slowly.