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.
RM
Built by Ren Martin
Sports coach · 20+ years in fitness · Used this calculator personally
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.
How accurate is the US Navy body fat formula?
The US Navy circumference method has a standard error of approximately 3–4 percentage points when measurements are taken correctly. This means a result of 20% body fat reflects an actual body fat of roughly 16–24%. For tracking relative changes over time — which is its primary use — it is sufficiently accurate and far more practical than methods requiring equipment or lab visits.
Why are hip measurements needed for women but not men?
Fat distribution differs between sexes. Women naturally store more fat at the hips and thighs (gynoid fat distribution), while men predominantly store excess fat abdominally (android distribution). The US Navy formula accounts for this by including hip circumference for women, providing a more accurate estimate of total body fat percentage for female body composition patterns.
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.