Estimate your body fat percentage with a tape measure using the US Navy method. Enter your height, neck and waist (and hip if you are female) in centimetres.
How the body fat calculator works
The US Navy method uses logarithms of body measurements. For men: 495 ÷ (1.0324 − 0.19077 × log10(waist − neck) + 0.15456 × log10(height)) − 450. For women: 495 ÷ (1.29579 − 0.35004 × log10(waist + hip − neck) + 0.22100 × log10(height)) − 450. Measure the waist at the navel, the neck below the larynx and the hips at the widest point.
Example
A man who is 175 cm tall with a 38 cm neck and 85 cm waist has about 16.9% body fat, which falls in the fitness range. At 75 kg that is about 12.7 kg of fat and 62.3 kg of lean mass.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the Navy method?
It is a quick estimate and can be off by several percentage points compared with DEXA scans or other clinical methods. Use it to track trends over time.
What is a healthy body fat percentage?
Common guidelines give about 14 to 24% for men and 21 to 31% for women, but ideal ranges vary with age and fitness goals.
How should I take the measurements?
Stand relaxed, measure on bare skin, keep the tape snug but not tight, and take each measurement twice.
Please note: results are estimates for general information only and are not medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.