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Healthy Body Fat Calculator

Body Fat Percentage Formula:

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

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1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is a measure of the amount of fat in your body compared to your total body weight. It provides a more accurate assessment of health than weight or 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:

Explanation: This formula estimates body fat percentage based on BMI, age, and gender, providing a quick assessment without specialized equipment.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Monitoring body fat percentage is important for assessing health risks, tracking fitness progress, and maintaining optimal body composition. High body fat percentage is associated with increased risk of various health conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMI value (calculate it first if needed), age in years, and select your gender. All values must be valid (BMI > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy body fat percentage range?
A: For men: 8-19% (athletes), 11-21% (fitness), 18-24% (average). For women: 21-33% (athletes), 23-33% (fitness), 25-35% (average).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This formula provides a reasonable estimate but may not be as accurate as methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.

Q3: How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
A: For tracking purposes, monthly measurements are sufficient as body fat changes slowly over time.

Q4: Does this calculation work for all age groups?
A: The formula is designed for adults. Different standards apply to children and adolescents.

Q5: Can body fat percentage be too low?
A: Yes, extremely low body fat (below essential fat levels) can disrupt normal physiological functions and hormone production.

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