How accurate is the Navy method?

It's a reasonable estimate for most body types but is less accurate for very lean or very muscular individuals compared to DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.

Where exactly should I measure my waist?

At the narrowest point, typically just above the belly button — measure without pulling the tape too tight.

Health

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat percentage using the U.S. Navy circumference method.

Sex

Height (cm)

Neck (cm)

Waist (cm)

Hip (cm)

Estimated body fat

26.4%

Uses the U.S. Navy circumference method — an estimate, not a substitute for clinical body composition testing.

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About this tool

Estimate your body fat percentage from simple tape-measure circumference measurements (neck, waist, and — for women — hips), using the U.S. Navy method commonly used as a low-cost alternative to clinical body composition testing.

How to use this tool

1
Measure neck and waist
Use a tape measure at the narrowest point of the neck and waist.
2
Measure hips (women only)
Add the hip measurement at the widest point.
3
Read your estimate
See your estimated body fat percentage.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is the Navy method?: It's a reasonable estimate for most body types but is less accurate for very lean or very muscular individuals compared to DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.
Where exactly should I measure my waist?: At the narrowest point, typically just above the belly button — measure without pulling the tape too tight.