Height Weight Body Fat Percentage Calculator

Body Fat Percentage Formula:

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

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:

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

Where:

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

Explanation: This equation estimates body fat percentage based on BMI, age, and gender, providing a simple method to assess body composition.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Monitoring body fat percentage is important for health assessment, fitness tracking, and weight management. High body fat percentage is associated with increased health risks, while very low levels can also be problematic.

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 formula provides a reasonable estimate but may not be as accurate as methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing. It's best used for general tracking rather than precise measurement.

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: 14-20%, fitness: 21-24%, average: 25-30%).

Q3: Why does the formula include age?
A: Body composition changes with age, typically showing increased fat mass and decreased lean mass, so age is an important factor in the calculation.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for children?
A: No, this formula is designed for adults. Different methods and standards are used for assessing body fat in children and adolescents.

Q5: How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
A: For most people, monthly measurements are sufficient to track trends. Daily fluctuations are normal and not meaningful for long-term assessment.