Body Fat Calculator - U.S. Navy Method
Estimate your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy tape measure method.
WiseClick provides estimates only, not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
How the U.S. Navy Method Works
The U.S. Navy body fat estimation method uses simple tape measurements of your neck, waist, and height (plus hip circumference for women) to estimate body fat percentage. Developed by the U.S. Navy for assessing military personnel fitness, this method is widely used because it requires only a measuring tape.
For Men
Body Fat % = 495 / (1.0324 - 0.19077 x log10(waist - neck) + 0.15456 x log10(height)) - 450
For Women
Body Fat % = 495 / (1.29579 - 0.35004 x log10(waist + hip - neck) + 0.22100 x log10(height)) - 450
Body Fat Categories
- Essential Fat — Men: 2-5%, Women: 10-13%. The minimum fat needed for basic physiological function.
- Athletic — Men: 6-13%, Women: 14-20%. Typical for athletes and very fit individuals.
- Fitness — Men: 14-17%, Women: 21-24%. A good fitness level for most active adults.
- Average — Men: 18-24%, Women: 25-31%. The normal range for the general population.
- Obese — Men: 25%+, Women: 32%+. Above the healthy range, associated with increased health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the U.S. Navy body fat method?
The U.S. Navy method is reasonably accurate for most people, typically within 3-4% of more precise methods like DEXA scans. It works best for individuals within normal body fat ranges.
What is a healthy body fat percentage?
For men, 14-17% is considered fitness level and 18-24% is average. For women, 21-24% is fitness level and 25-31% is average. Essential fat levels are 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women.
How do I measure neck and waist circumference correctly?
Measure neck at the narrowest point, just below the larynx. Measure waist at the navel for men, and at the narrowest point for women. For hips (women only), measure at the widest point. Use a flexible tape measure and keep it snug but not tight.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates based on the U.S. Navy body fat formula and is for educational purposes only. WiseClick provides estimates only, not medical advice. Results may vary from clinical measurements such as DEXA or hydrostatic weighing. Consult a healthcare professional for an accurate assessment of your body composition.