Calculate body fat percent using tape measurements when DEXA or calipers are not available.
Overview
The US Navy body-fat method estimates body fat percentage from circumference measurements and height.
It is practical for trend tracking at home when measurements are taken consistently under similar conditions.
Steps
Male and female equations are different.
Measure just below the larynx without compressing skin.
Use navel level after a relaxed exhale.
Measure widest gluteal circumference.
Use measured standing height.
Repeat under same hydration and timing conditions.
Math
Men: BF% = 86.010 x log10(waist - neck) - 70.041 x log10(height) + 36.76; Women: BF% = 163.205 x log10(waist + hip - neck) - 97.684 x log10(height) - 78.387
The Navy equations use logarithmic relationships between body circumferences and height to estimate body fat percentage.
Worked cases
BF% = 86.010 log10(19) - 70.041 log10(70) + 36.76
Estimated body fat: about 18.5%
BF% = 163.205 log10(56) - 97.684 log10(65) - 78.387
Estimated body fat: about 29.1%
Re-enter new circumferences with same method
Trend typically reflects meaningful body-fat reduction
Why use this
Questions