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Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Estimate body fat with the U.S. Navy method

Enter your neck, waist and hip measurements to estimate your body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy circumference method.

Height (cm)
Neck (cm)
Waist (cm)
Body fat
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About the body fat percentage calculator

The U.S. Navy body fat method estimates body fat percentage from a few circumference measurements and your height. It is a popular, equipment-free alternative to calipers or scales because it only needs a tape measure, making it easy to track at home.

Measurements should be taken with a flexible tape held snug but not compressing the skin. For women the method also uses a hip measurement; for men it does not. The result is an estimate and works best for people near a normal weight range — very muscular or very lean individuals may see less accurate numbers.

What the categories mean

  • Essential — the minimum fat needed for basic health.
  • Athletic / Fitness — lean, competitive-condition range.
  • Average — typical healthy adult range.
  • High — above the healthy range; consider lifestyle changes.

How to use the body fat percentage calculator

  1. Select your sex

    The formula differs for men and women — women also need a hip measurement.

  2. Enter your measurements

    Provide height, neck and waist (and hip for women) in centimetres.

  3. Read your estimate

    Your body fat percentage and category appear instantly.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is the Navy method?
It is a reasonable estimate for most adults but can be off by a few percent, especially for very muscular or very lean people. For clinical accuracy, methods like DEXA or hydrostatic weighing are needed.
How do I measure correctly?
Use a flexible tape held snug against the skin without compressing it. Measure neck below the larynx, waist at the navel (men) or narrowest point (women), and hip at the widest point.
Why does it ask for hip only for women?
The Navy equation for women includes a hip measurement because women typically store more fat around the hips, while the men’s equation uses only neck and waist.
Is this tool free?
Yes — free, no sign-up, and all calculation runs in your browser.

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