What is body fat percentage?

Body fat percentage is the proportion of your total body weight that is fat tissue. It includes essential fat (necessary for life functions) and storage fat. Unlike BMI, it directly measures body composition.

What is a healthy body fat percentage?

For men, 10–20% is generally considered healthy and fit. For women, 18–28% is healthy, as women naturally carry more essential fat. Athletes often have lower percentages — 6–13% for men and 14–20% for women.

What is the most accurate body fat measurement method?

DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is the gold standard but requires medical equipment. Hydrostatic weighing is also highly accurate. The US Navy method and skinfold calipers used in this calculator are accurate to within 3–4% for most people.

What is lean body mass?

Lean body mass (LBM) is your total body weight minus fat weight. It includes muscles, bones, organs, water, and connective tissue. Building lean mass through resistance training improves metabolic rate and overall health.

How often should I measure body fat?

Measure every 4–8 weeks for the most meaningful tracking. Daily fluctuations from water retention, food intake, and measurement inconsistency can be misleading. Consistent measurement conditions (same time of day, same measurer) improve accuracy.

Free Body Fat Percentage Calculator Online

Estimate body fat percentage three ways — US Navy tape method, BMI method, or Jackson-Pollock skinfold — then see your fat mass, lean mass, and category.

Age

Weight (kg)

Height (cm)

Neck (cm)

Waist (cm)

Body fat

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FatLean

Fat mass: —
Lean mass: —
Muscle (est.): —

Medical Disclaimer: The Body Fat Calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Results are estimates based on population averages and may not reflect your individual health status. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health, diet, or exercise routine.

ACE body fat categories

Category	Men	Women
Essential fat	2–5%	10–13%
Athletes	6–13%	14–20%
Fitness	14–17%	21–24%
Average	18–24%	25–31%
Obese	25%+	32%+

Source: American Council on Exercise (ACE).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is body fat percentage?: Body fat percentage is the proportion of your total body weight that is fat tissue. It includes essential fat (necessary for life functions) and storage fat. Unlike BMI, it directly measures body composition.
What is a healthy body fat percentage?: For men, 10–20% is generally considered healthy and fit. For women, 18–28% is healthy, as women naturally carry more essential fat. Athletes often have lower percentages — 6–13% for men and 14–20% for women.
What is the most accurate body fat measurement method?: DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is the gold standard but requires medical equipment. Hydrostatic weighing is also highly accurate. The US Navy method and skinfold calipers used in this calculator are accurate to within 3–4% for most people.
What is lean body mass?: Lean body mass (LBM) is your total body weight minus fat weight. It includes muscles, bones, organs, water, and connective tissue. Building lean mass through resistance training improves metabolic rate and overall health.
How often should I measure body fat?: Measure every 4–8 weeks for the most meaningful tracking. Daily fluctuations from water retention, food intake, and measurement inconsistency can be misleading. Consistent measurement conditions (same time of day, same measurer) improve accuracy.