How accurate is the Navy method?

It's typically within 3-4% of more precise methods like DEXA scans for most body types, making it a reasonably reliable estimate for general tracking, though not a substitute for clinical measurement.

Where exactly should I measure?

Measure the neck just below the larynx, the waist at the narrowest point (or navel level), and, for women, the hips at the widest point. Keep the tape snug but not compressing the skin.

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat percentage using the US Navy tape-measure method.

How this is calculated

US Navy method: uses log10 of circumference measurements, a different formula for men and women

Assumptions used in this calculation

Formula: Uses the US Navy circumference method, a validated tape-measure estimate rather than a direct body-composition measurement.

About this calculator

The body fat calculator estimates body fat percentage using the US Navy circumference method, a tape-measure formula requiring only height, neck, waist (and hip, for women), with no scale or calipers needed.

Worked example

Male, 180 cm, neck 38 cm, waist 85 cm

Result: Body fat ≈ 16.1% (Fitness)

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Frequently asked questions

How accurate is the Navy method?

Where exactly should I measure?

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