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 fitness than body weight alone, as it distinguishes between fat mass and lean body mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the U.S. Navy body fat formula:

For women, the equation uses different coefficients:

Where:

• \( \text{waist} \) — Waist circumference at navel (cm)
• \( \text{neck} \) — Neck circumference (cm)
• \( \text{height} \) — Height (cm)
• \( \log \) — Logarithm base 10

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Knowing your body fat percentage helps assess health risks, track fitness progress, and set appropriate weight loss or muscle gain goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure waist at navel level and neck at narrowest point. All measurements should be in centimeters. For most accurate results, measure in the morning before eating.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this method?
A: The Navy method is reasonably accurate (±3%) for most people but may be less accurate for very lean or obese individuals.

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: How often should I measure?
A: Every 2-4 weeks is sufficient to track changes. Daily measurements aren't useful due to normal fluctuations.

Q4: Why different formulas for men and women?
A: Women naturally carry more essential body fat, particularly in breasts and hips, requiring different calculation coefficients.

Q5: Can I use inches instead of cm?
A: The formula requires cm measurements. Convert inches to cm by multiplying by 2.54.