VitalMetricHubBody fat calculator
The U.S. Navy method uses circumference measurements. Accuracy depends on measurement technique and body shape; DEXA or hydrostatic weighing are more precise.
If you are unsure about body fat percentage, start with our BMI calculator for a simpler screening number, then return here for a tape-based estimate.
Estimated body fat
11.1%
ACE-style descriptive body fat % ranges
Common fitness-industry reference bands. They are not clinical thresholds; methods like DEXA may disagree with tape estimates. Educational illustration only — not a diagnosis or personal target.
ACE (American Council on Exercise). Percent body fat norms commonly cited in fitness education (approximate descriptive categories; not clinical cutoffs).
Go deeper
Evidence-informed guides tied to this calculator — still educational, not personal medical advice.
How this calculator works
Open any section below for the underlying method, how to read your results, practical tips, and limits. This site is for education only—not medical advice or a personal care plan.
Formula and method
We use published U.S. Navy circumference equations: neck, waist, height (and hip for women) are converted into an estimated body fat percentage.
The same landmarks must be used each time; even small tape placement errors change the result.
How to read your result
Your percentage is compared to common descriptive bands (for example, athlete vs average) used in fitness education. These bands are not the same as medical diagnostic criteria.
Tape methods often disagree with DEXA or Bod Pod by several percentage points—trends over time can be more useful than a single absolute number.
Practical tips
Measure at the same time of day, relaxed, after a normal exhale. Keep the tape horizontal and snug but not compressing skin.
For waist, use the narrowest point between rib and hip or the protocol your clinician prefers; consistency beats perfection.
Hydration and bloating can shift waist readings; avoid comparing right after very large meals.
Limitations
This estimate can be biased in very lean, very muscular, or post-surgical bodies.
Do not use it to diagnose disease or set medical body-composition targets without professional interpretation.
Sources, formulas & further reading
Based on: U.S. Navy circumference (tape) method; skinfold alternatives such as Jackson–Pollock are described in ACE/ACSM literature.
For additional clinical context, see independent references from the publishers below (WHO, CDC, PubMed, Medscape, ACE, ACOG, NIH, NCBI, USDA — as applicable).
Medical disclaimer
This tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Results are estimates only.
Last medically reviewed: March 2026
Content last updated: March 30, 2026