NAVY METHOD
BODY FAT
Calculate body fat using the official US Navy circumference formula.
US Navy Method
Result
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Body Fat %
Category--
Fat-Free Mass %--
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Body Fat Reference Chart
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The US Navy Body Fat Formula
The US Navy circumference method was developed for use across military populations and remains one of the most widely used field-based body fat estimation techniques. For men, it uses neck and waist measurements; for women, neck, waist, and hip measurements. Accuracy is within 3–4 percentage points of DEXA scan results in most populations.
How to Measure Correctly
Neck: measure at the narrowest point, below the larynx. Waist: measure at the narrowest point (men) or at the navel (women). Hips (women only): measure at the widest point. All measurements should be taken first thing in the morning before eating or drinking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Navy method for body fat?
The US Navy circumference method is typically within 3–4 percentage points of DEXA scan measurements for average body types. It tends to overestimate body fat in very muscular individuals and may be less precise for those with unusual fat distribution.
What measurements do I need for the Navy method?
Men need neck circumference and waist circumference, plus height. Women need neck, waist, and hip circumference, plus height. All measurements should be in centimetres and taken at specific anatomical landmarks for accuracy.