US Navy Body Fat Formula
Men: %BF = 495 / (1.0324 − 0.19077×log10(waist−neck) + 0.15456×log10(height)) − 450
Women: %BF = 495 / (1.29579 − 0.35004×log10(waist+hip−neck) + 0.22100×log10(height)) − 450
Body Fat Categories (ACE)
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2–5% | 10–13% |
| Athletes | 6–13% | 14–20% |
| Fitness | 14–17% | 21–24% |
| Acceptable | 18–24% | 25–31% |
| Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ |
How accurate is this method?
The US Navy method is accurate to within 3–4% for most people. DEXA scans and hydrostatic weighing are more precise but require clinical equipment.
Where do I measure waist circumference?
Measure at the narrowest point of your waist (usually around your navel), keeping the tape horizontal. For men, measure at the navel level.