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 associated with obesity, track fitness progress, and set appropriate weight loss goals. Unlike BMI, it accounts for muscle mass.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure waist at navel level after exhaling normally
• Measure neck below the larynx with tape sloping downward
• All measurements should be in centimeters
• For most accurate results, take measurements in the morning before eating

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this method?
A: The Navy method is about 3-4% accurate compared to DEXA scans when measurements are taken properly.

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 different formulas for men and women?
A: Women naturally carry more essential body fat and distribute fat differently than men.

Q4: Can I use inches instead of centimeters?
A: The formula requires centimeters. Convert inches to cm by multiplying by 2.54.

Q5: Does this work for athletes?
A: It's reasonably accurate for most populations but may underestimate body fat in very muscular individuals.