Body Fat %

The U.S. Navy circumference method estimates your body fat percentage from a few tape measurements. Unlike BMI, it gives a sense of composition — fat versus the rest.

Height5'9"
Neck15 in
Waist34.6 in

Results update as you type

Body fat
19.2%
Average
Average

Acceptable for general health, with room to improve body composition.

Formulas use international (WHO) standards — healthy ranges are the same worldwide; only the units differ. The national context below uses U.S. data (CDC / NHANES).

Body fat and weight in the U.S.

Body-fat percentage tells a story the scale can’t. In the U.S., where nearly 3 in 4 adults are overweight or obese, looking at composition — not just weight — gives a clearer picture of health.

73.6%
Overweight or obese
Of adults (NHANES)
41.9%
Obesity (BMI ≥ 30)
2 in 5 adults
14–17%
Fitness range (men)
Healthy body fat
21–24%
Fitness range (women)
Healthy body fat

What body-fat percentage is

It’s the share of your weight that is fat, versus everything else (muscle, bone, water, organs). Unlike BMI, it reflects what your body is made of, not just how much you weigh.

Women naturally and healthily carry more essential fat than men, so healthy ranges differ by sex.

The U.S. Navy method

VitaDup uses the U.S. Navy circumference method: it estimates fat from your height, neck and waist (plus hips for women). All you need is a tape measure.

It’s an estimate, within about 3–4 points of lab methods. To track progress, measure the same way each time and watch the trend.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure correctly?

Use a tape, snug but not tight, on bare skin. Neck below the larynx; waist at the navel; hips at the widest point. Stay relaxed.

Is it as accurate as a smart scale?

Similar margin. No at-home method is exact — use it to track your trend, not as an absolute number.

What’s a healthy range?

Roughly 14–24% for men and 21–31% for women. “Athlete” ranges are lower and not always sustainable.

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This tool is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.