Body Fat Percentage Chart
Reference ranges for body fat percentage by sex and fitness level.
| Category | Male | Female | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | < 6% | < 16% | Minimum amount of body fat necessary for basic physical and physiological health. |
| Athletic | 6 – 14% | 16 – 20% | Very fit and lean. Typical of competitive athletes. |
| Fitness | 14 – 18% | 20 – 25% | Good fitness level. Fit and healthy. |
| Average | 18 – 25% | 25 – 32% | Acceptable range. Room for improvement. |
| Obese | > 25% | > 32% | High body fat. Consider lifestyle changes. |
What Is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage represents the proportion of fat to total body weight. Unlike BMI, it accounts for muscle mass and provides a more accurate picture of body composition. Women naturally have higher body fat percentages than men due to physiological and hormonal differences.
How to Measure Body Fat
Common methods include skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), DEXA scans, hydrostatic weighing, and the US Navy body fat formula. Each method has different accuracy levels and costs. DEXA scans are considered the gold standard for accuracy.
Note: These are general guidelines. Individual optimal body fat percentages vary by age, genetics, and fitness goals. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
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