1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the proportion of fat in your body compared to your total body weight. It's a more accurate indicator of fitness than body weight alone, as it distinguishes between fat mass and lean body mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation for women:

Where:

• \( waist \) — Waist circumference at narrowest point (inches)
• \( hip \) — Hip circumference at widest point (inches)
• \( neck \) — Neck circumference at narrowest point (inches)
• \( height \) — Height in inches

Explanation: The equation uses logarithmic transformations of body measurements to estimate body fat percentage based on US Navy research.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Knowing your body fat percentage helps assess health risks, track fitness progress, and set appropriate weight loss or muscle gain goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure circumference with a flexible tape measure while standing relaxed. For waist, measure at narrowest point between ribs and hips. For hip, measure at widest part of buttocks.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this method?
A: The Navy body fat calculator is reasonably accurate (±3%) for most people but may be less accurate for athletes, elderly, or very obese individuals.

Q2: What are healthy body fat percentages?
A: For women: Essential fat 10-13%, Athletes 14-20%, Fitness 21-24%, Average 25-31%, Obese 32%+.

Q3: When should measurements be taken?
A: Best in the morning before eating, after using the bathroom, and before exercising.

Q4: Are there male versions of this equation?
A: Yes, men use a different equation that doesn't include hip measurement.

Q5: How often should I measure body fat?
A: Every 4-8 weeks is sufficient to track meaningful changes.