Body Fat Calculator - U.S. Navy Method

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy circumference method — accurate, simple, and requires only a tape measure.

U.S. Navy Method

Your Measurements

How to Measure

Use a soft tape measure. Measure in the morning, relaxed, standing straight. Keep the tape snug but not tight.

Your Results

Enter your measurements and click calculate to see your results.

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Body Fat Percentage
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Body Fat Classification Scale
Essential Athletes Fitness Average Obese
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Fat Mass (est.)
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Lean Mass (est.)
Use this value in FFMI Calculator →

Body Fat Categories

📏 How to Take Accurate Measurements

Proper measurement technique is essential for accurate results.

📍 Neck

Measure around the neck just below the larynx (Adam's apple), with the tape sloping slightly downward at the front.

  • Look straight ahead
  • Keep shoulders relaxed
  • Don't flex neck muscles

📍 Waist

Measure at the narrowest point of your torso, typically at the navel level or slightly above.

  • Breathe out naturally
  • Don't suck in your stomach
  • Keep tape parallel to floor

📍 Hips (Women Only)

Measure at the widest point of your hips/buttocks, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.

  • Stand with feet together
  • Measure at the widest point
  • Keep tape level all around

💡 Tips for Accuracy

Follow these tips to get the most accurate measurement possible.

  • Measure in the morning before eating
  • Use a flexible cloth tape measure
  • Take each measurement 2-3 times
  • Use the average of your measurements

About the U.S. Navy Method

The U.S. Navy body fat formula was developed by Hodgdon and Beckett at the Naval Health Research Center. It has been validated against hydrostatic weighing and typically has an accuracy of ±3-4% compared to laboratory methods.

Limitations: This method may be less accurate for very lean individuals (<10% body fat) or those with unusual body proportions. For the most accurate results, consider DEXA scanning or hydrostatic weighing.

Formula (Men): %BF = 86.010 × log₁₀(waist - neck) - 70.041 × log₁₀(height) + 36.76

Formula (Women): %BF = 163.205 × log₁₀(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684 × log₁₀(height) - 78.387

This calculator is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional for medical assessments.

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