Body Fat Percentage Calculator Using Height And Weight

Body Fat Percentage Formula:

\[ Body Fat \% = (1.20 \times BMI) + (0.23 \times age) - (10.8 \times sex) - 5.4 \]

Height:

Weight:

Age:

years

Gender:

Body Fat Percentage:

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1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the total mass of fat divided by total body mass, multiplied by 100. It provides a more accurate assessment of body composition than BMI alone, as it distinguishes between fat mass and lean body mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

\[ Body Fat \% = (1.20 \times BMI) + (0.23 \times age) - (10.8 \times sex) - 5.4 \]

Where:

\( BMI \) — Body Mass Index (weight in kg / height in m²)
\( age \) — Age in years
\( sex \) — 1 for male, 0 for female

Explanation: This formula estimates body fat percentage using BMI as a base measurement, then adjusts for age and gender differences in body composition.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Monitoring body fat percentage is important for assessing health risks, tracking fitness progress, and determining appropriate weight management strategies. High body fat levels are associated with increased risk of various health conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters, weight in kilograms, age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (height > 0, weight > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This method provides a reasonable estimate but may not be as accurate as specialized methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. It's best used for general tracking purposes.

Q2: What are healthy body fat percentage ranges?
A: For men: 6-24% (athletes: 6-13%, fitness: 14-17%, average: 18-24%). For women: 16-30% (athletes: 16-20%, fitness: 21-24%, average: 25-30%).

Q3: Why does age affect body fat percentage?
A: As people age, they tend to lose muscle mass and gain fat mass, even if their weight remains constant, which is why age is included in the calculation.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for athletes?
A: While it can provide an estimate, athletes with high muscle mass may get inaccurate results as BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat.

Q5: How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
A: For tracking purposes, monthly measurements are sufficient as body fat changes slowly. Daily or weekly measurements may show fluctuations due to hydration changes.