Question 1

How does the US Navy method estimate body fat?

Accepted Answer

The US Navy method uses circumference measurements (neck, waist, and hip for women) along with height to estimate body fat percentage. It was developed by the US Navy for fitness assessments and is reasonably accurate (±3%) when measurements are taken correctly.

Question 2

What is a healthy body fat percentage?

Accepted Answer

For men, 10–20% is generally considered healthy. For women, 20–30% is the healthy range. Athletes often have lower percentages (6–13% for men, 14–20% for women). Essential fat levels below these ranges can be dangerous.

Question 3

How accurate is the BMI-based body fat estimate?

Accepted Answer

The BMI-based method (Deurenberg formula) is a rough estimate with an error margin of about ±5%. It does not distinguish between muscle and fat, so it is less accurate for athletes or very muscular individuals. The US Navy method is generally more accurate.

Question 4

How should I measure my waist and neck?

Accepted Answer

Measure your waist at the navel level, relaxed, after exhaling. Measure your neck below the larynx (Adam's apple), sloping slightly downward to the front. For women, measure hips at the widest point. Use a flexible tape measure and keep it level.

Category	Men	Women
Essential fat	2–5%	10–13%
Athletic	6–13%	14–20%
Fitness	14–17%	21–24%
Average	18–24%	25–31%
Obese	25%+	32%+

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