Body Fat Calculator (US Units)
Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method with inches and pounds. This free body fat calculator for USA users gives you an instant body fat estimate and category based on your gender and measurements.
Calculate Your Body Fat Percentage
How to Use This Body Fat Calculator
- Select your gender.
- Enter your weight in pounds.
- Enter your height in feet and inches.
- Measure your neck, waist, and (for women) hip circumference in inches.
- Click “Calculate Body Fat” to see your estimated body fat percentage and category.
What Is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage estimates how much of your body is made up of fat compared to everything else (muscle, bone, water, organs, etc.). It is often a better indicator of health and body composition than weight or BMI alone.
This calculator uses the US Navy body fat formula, which relies on simple tape measurements and is commonly used in military fitness assessments in the United States.
Body Fat Percentage Categories
Categories can vary slightly by source, but the ranges below are commonly used for adults:
Men
- Essential fat: 2–5%
- Athletes: 6–13%
- Fitness: 14–17%
- Average: 18–24%
- Obese: 25% and higher
Women
- Essential fat: 10–13%
- Athletes: 14–20%
- Fitness: 21–24%
- Average: 25–31%
- Obese: 32% and higher
Example Body Fat Estimates
These are rough example values for adults based on typical measurements. Use the calculator above to get your own estimate.
| Profile | Measurements | % Body Fat | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male, 5'10" | Neck 15", Waist 34" | ~18% | Average |
| Male, 6'0" | Neck 16", Waist 40" | ~26% | Obese |
| Female, 5'5" | Neck 13", Waist 30", Hip 40" | ~28% | Average |
| Female, 5'4" | Neck 12", Waist 26", Hip 36" | ~21% | Fitness |
Limitations of Body Fat Calculators
The US Navy body fat formula is an estimate based on external measurements. It does not directly measure body fat like a DEXA scan or hydrostatic weighing. Results may be less accurate if:
- You carry a lot of muscle mass.
- You have loose skin after large weight loss.
- Your tape measurements are not taken consistently.
Use this calculator as a helpful guide, not a medical diagnosis. For a full assessment, talk with your doctor or a qualified fitness professional.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this body fat calculator for USA users?
Yes. This calculator uses US units like pounds and inches, and it is based on the US Navy body fat formula commonly used in American fitness testing.
How accurate is the US Navy body fat method?
The Navy method is reasonably accurate for many people when measurements are taken carefully, but it still provides an estimate. More advanced methods like DEXA scans are more precise.
Should I focus on body fat percentage or weight?
Body fat percentage often gives a better picture of health than weight alone because it distinguishes between fat mass and lean mass. Many fitness programs track both weight and body fat over time.
Is my data saved on this website?
No. All calculations happen in your browser. Your measurements and results are not stored or sent to a server.