Explains BMI as a screening measure and describes important limitations.
Health & fitness
Body-fat percentage
Enter your values below for a clear, instant result.
Your result
FormulaU.S. Navy circumference estimate using waist, neck, height and (for women) hip.
- Enter the known values.
- Apply the displayed formula.
- Review the result and supporting values.
Worked example: Use measurements in centimetres and keep the tape level.
Estimate notice: This body-fat percentage result is an estimate based only on the values and assumptions shown. Verify important decisions with the relevant official source or a qualified professional.
Educational estimate only—not medical advice. Individual health needs vary; consult a qualified clinician when making health decisions.
Understand the result before using it
Body-fat percentage uses sex used by formula, height, waist, neck, and hip to calculate its result. It uses a population-based health or fitness equation to produce an educational estimate from your measurements.
Formula, assumptions, and example
Formula
U.S. Navy circumference estimate using waist, neck, height and (for women) hip.
Assumptions
- The entered sex used by formula, height, waist, neck, and hip are complete, valid, and use the units or format shown beside each field.
- Measurements are accurate and were taken using the method expected by the equation.
- Population averages are an acceptable starting point for this educational calculation.
Worked example
Use measurements in centimetres and keep the tape level.
When to use it
Good uses
- Understand a general screening measure or planning range.
- Track a consistent estimate over time while using the same method.
- Prepare an informed discussion with a qualified healthcare professional.
Limitations
Common mistakes to avoid
- Individual biology, pregnancy, age, medication, disability, training status, and clinical history may make the estimate unsuitable.
- The result cannot diagnose a condition or prescribe treatment, diet, exercise, or medication.
- Educational estimate only—not medical advice. Individual health needs vary; consult a qualified clinician when making health decisions.
Sources and further reading
These references explain the underlying standards or provide authoritative context. Your own contract, institution, clinician, product documentation, local code, or governing standard may be the controlling source.
Evidence-based context for energy and body-weight planning.
Questions about this calculation
What does the Body-fat percentage calculate?
Body-fat percentage uses sex used by formula, height, waist, neck, and hip to calculate its result. It uses a population-based health or fitness equation to produce an educational estimate from your measurements. The formula used is: U.S. Navy circumference estimate using waist, neck, height and (for women) hip.
Which inputs affect the Body-fat percentage result?
The result uses sex used by formula, height, waist, neck, and hip. Changing any of these values can change the output, so enter them using the labels and units shown.
Is the Body-fat percentage result exact?
This body-fat percentage result is an estimate based only on the values and assumptions shown. Verify important decisions with the relevant official source or a qualified professional.
When should I verify a Body-fat percentage result?
Verify it before any financial, health, academic, construction, safety, or engineering decision. Use the primary source or an appropriately qualified professional.
Clear answers, without the guesswork
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