Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy circumference method. No calipers needed — just a measuring tape.
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2–5% | 10–13% |
| Athlete | 6–13% | 14–20% |
| Fitness | 14–17% | 21–24% |
| Average | 18–24% | 25–31% |
| Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ |
The US Navy body fat formula estimates body fat percentage using body circumference measurements and height. Developed by Hodgdon and Beckett in 1984, it is widely used in military and fitness settings. For men, the formula uses neck and waist circumference. For women, hip circumference is added. Margin of error is approximately 3–4% compared to DEXA scans.
Measure your neck just below the larynx. Measure your waist at the navel for men, or at the narrowest point for women. Measure hips (women only) at the widest point. Take measurements in the morning before eating for the most consistent results.