Learn how to calculate body fat percentage with 4 proven methods — from the free Navy formula to DEXA scan. Includes accuracy ratings and healthy ranges by age and gender.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a healthy body fat percentage for men and women?
For men, a healthy (acceptable) body fat range is 18–24%. For women, it is 25–31%. Athletes tend to fall in the 6–13% range for men and 14–20% for women. These ranges shift upward by roughly 1–2 percentage points per decade of age.
What is the most accurate way to measure body fat?
DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is considered the most accurate widely available method, with a margin of error of roughly 1–2% at the population level. Hydrostatic weighing is comparably accurate. Skinfold calipers performed by a trained technician achieve ±3–3.5%. BIA smart scales are the least reliable, often underestimating fat by 5–10 percentage points versus DEXA.
How do I calculate body fat percentage at home for free?
The US Navy Circumference Method requires only a tape measure. For men, measure waist circumference (at the navel) and neck circumference, then apply the formula: 86.010 × log10(waist − neck) − 70.041 × log10(height) + 36.76. For women, add hip circumference to the waist measurement in the formula. All measurements in inches; height in inches.
How is body fat percentage different from BMI?
BMI (Body Mass Index) uses only height and weight — it cannot distinguish fat from muscle or bone. Body fat percentage directly measures how much of your weight is fat tissue. A 2025 study in the Annals of Family Medicine found BMI had no statistically significant association with 15-year mortality, while high body fat (BIA-measured) raised all-cause mortality risk by 78%.
At what body fat percentage do abs become visible?
For men, upper abdominal definition typically appears around 14–15% body fat; a full six-pack is usually visible below 12%. For women, visible ab definition generally requires 16–20% body fat. These are averages — muscle size, training history, and genetics all affect the exact threshold.