Calculate your body fat percentage accurately using the U.S. Navy method — just a tape measure required.
Enter your gender, height, and body measurements to calculate body fat percentage using the proven U.S. Navy formula — no body fat scale or gym equipment needed.
All measurements should be taken at the narrowest point.
13.7%
AthleticFat Mass
9.6 kg
Lean Mass
60.4 kg
Recommended Daily Steps
10,000
American Council on Exercise (ACE) classification for men
| Category | Body Fat Range |
|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2–5% |
| Athletic | 6–13% |
| Fitness | 14–17% |
| Acceptable | 18–24% |
| Obese | 25%+ |
Body fat percentage is a more accurate measure of fitness than BMI alone. While BMI only considers weight and height, body fat percentage distinguishes between fat mass and lean mass (muscle, bone, water).
For men, a fitness range of 14–17% and acceptable range of 18–24% are considered healthy. For women, fitness falls between 21–24% and acceptable between 25–31%. Athletes typically carry less — 6–13% for men and 14–20% for women.
The U.S. Navy method is typically within 3–4% of a DEXA scan result, making it one of the most accurate tape-measure methods available without equipment. Accuracy improves when measurements are taken carefully and consistently.
Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually at or just above the navel. Keep the tape measure parallel to the floor and measure after exhaling normally — do not suck in your stomach.
BMI only uses height and weight, so it cannot distinguish between fat and muscle. A muscular athlete may have a high BMI but low body fat. Body fat percentage is a more precise indicator of actual body composition and health risk.
Combine regular walking or cardio with strength training and a modest calorie deficit. Aim for 0.5–1 kg of fat loss per week. Daily step goals of 10,000+ steps are an effective and sustainable way to increase calorie expenditure without intense exercise.
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Steps For
Enter neck, waist, hip circumference, height, and sex to estimate body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy formula.
Measure your neck
Measure around your neck just below the Adam's apple with a soft measuring tape.
Measure your waist
For men, measure around the navel. For women, measure at the narrowest point of the waist.
Measure your hips (women only)
For women, add a measurement at the widest point of the hips.
Enter measurements and height
Type all measurements plus your height. The calculator supports metric and imperial units.
Read your body fat percentage and category
The result gives your estimated body fat percentage plus the ACE category (essential fat, athletes, fitness, average, obese).