🧮 Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Disclaimer: This result is an estimate and may be off by 1–2%. For the most accurate body fat measurement, consult a health professional.

How body fat percentage is estimated

Body fat percentage is the share of your total body weight that is fat, as opposed to muscle, bone, organs, and water. This calculator uses the Deurenberg formula, which estimates body fat from your BMI, age, and sex:

Body fat % = 1.39 × BMI + 0.16 × age − 10.34 × sex − 9
(sex = 1 for male, 0 for female)

It's a convenient estimate that needs no calipers or special equipment, but because it's BMI-based it can be less accurate for very muscular or very lean people. For precise figures, methods like DEXA scans or skinfold calipers are better.

Body fat percentage categories

CategoryMenWomen
Essential fat2–5%10–13%
Athletes6–13%14–20%
Fitness14–17%21–24%
Average18–24%25–31%
Obese25%+32%+

Frequently asked questions

How is body fat percentage calculated?

This tool uses the Deurenberg formula, which derives body fat from your BMI, age, and sex. It needs no special equipment, though direct methods like DEXA or calipers are more precise.

What is a healthy body fat percentage?

For men, roughly 14–24% is typical (fitness to average), and for women about 21–31%. Athletes are usually lower. Very low body fat is unhealthy because some fat is essential.

Why do men and women have different ranges?

Women naturally carry more essential fat for hormonal and reproductive health, so healthy ranges are several percentage points higher than for men.

How accurate is this estimate?

Because it's BMI-based, it can be off by a few percent, especially for very muscular or very lean individuals. Use it to track trends over time rather than as an exact figure.

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