Fitness
Body Fat Calculator (Navy Method)
Estimate body fat percentage using the US Navy circumference method. Just neck, waist (and hip for women) and height.
Measurements (cm)
Body fat (Navy method)
17%
Fitness
Frequently Asked Questions about the Body Fat Calculator (Navy Method)
How accurate is the Navy body fat method?
Studies comparing the US Navy formula to DEXA scans find typical errors of plus or minus 3-4 percentage points for most adults. It is reasonably reliable for tracking change over time but is not a clinical measurement. Athletes with unusual proportions (very wide necks or narrow waists) tend to get less accurate estimates.
Why does it ask for hip measurement for women?
The female Navy formula uses waist + hip - neck as its key input because women store a larger share of body fat around the hips and thighs. Leaving hip out would systematically underestimate body fat for most women.
How do I measure my neck correctly?
Place the tape just below the larynx (Adam's apple). Keep it level all the way around and snug but not compressing the skin. Measure to the nearest quarter inch or half centimeter, and take two readings to confirm.
How do I measure my waist?
For men, measure at the navel. For women, measure at the narrowest point of the torso. Stand relaxed, breathe out normally, and do not pull the tape tight or suck in. The measurement directly affects your result, so consistency here matters most.
What body fat percentage is considered healthy?
Using the ACE classification built into this calculator: for men, 6-17% covers athletic to fitness, and 18-24% is average. For women, 14-24% covers athletic to fitness, and 25-31% is average. Below 6% (men) or 14% (women) is essential-fat-only territory, and 25%+ (men) or 32%+ (women) falls in the obese range. These are general guidelines, not a substitute for advice from a doctor or registered dietitian.