Body Fat Percentage Calculator
Estimate your body fat percentage using the US Navy method - a validated circumference-based formula that requires only a tape measure.
Educational estimator only - not medical advice.
100-250 cm
Enter your measurements above to calculate body fat percentage.
The US Navy circumference method uses body circumference measurements and log functions to estimate body fat. The formulas (in cm) are:
For inches, replace the constants with: Male: 86.010 x log_1_0(waist - neck) - 70.041 x log_1_0(height) + 36.76 (formula is the same - the original Navy formula uses inches; cm values are converted internally).
Visceral fat - fat stored around abdominal organs - is the most metabolically harmful type for people with diabetes. High body fat, especially central (abdominal) fat, drives insulin resistance, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk. Waist circumference alone is a strong predictor of metabolic risk.
Alternatives for more accuracy: DEXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the gold standard. Bioelectrical impedance (BIA) scales are convenient but vary in accuracy. Hydrostatic weighing is highly accurate but less accessible.
Chapter 6 of the FOD Mature Series explores body composition and diabetes - how fat distribution (not just total weight) drives insulin resistance, the role of visceral versus subcutaneous fat, and evidence-based approaches to reducing metabolic fat.
FOD Mature Series - Ch. 6This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. The US Navy method has an error margin of +/-3-4% body fat compared to DEXA. Results should not be used for clinical decisions. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice on body composition and diabetes management.