The U.S. Navy method
This estimates body fat percentage from simple tape measurements using the U.S. Navy formula. It's surprisingly accurate and needs no special equipment — just a tape measure.
Healthy body fat ranges
- Men: ~10-20% is generally healthy; athletes 6-13%.
- Women: ~18-28% is generally healthy; athletes 14-20%.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I measure?
Neck (below the larynx), waist (at the navel), and for women also the hips at the widest point.
How accurate is it?
Within a few percent for most people — great for tracking changes over time.