Clever Calculators

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy tape method, from a few simple body measurements.

Men: at navel level. Women: at the narrowest point.

Result
Body fat

Enter your height and measurements. For men, the waist must be larger than the neck; for women, waist plus hip must exceed the neck.

The US Navy method estimates body fat from your height and a few tape measurements. Measure around the narrowest part of your neck and, for the waist, at navel level (men) or the narrowest point (women). It's an estimate, not a clinical measurement.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is the US Navy body fat method?

It's a reasonable estimate for most people and only needs a tape measure, but it's less precise than methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing — expect it to be within a few percentage points. Consistent measuring technique matters most for tracking change over time.

Why does it ask women for a hip measurement?

The Navy formula for women includes the hip circumference alongside the neck and waist, because it improves the estimate for typical female body-fat distribution. The men's formula uses only neck and waist.

Related calculators