1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the proportion of fat in your body compared to your total body weight. For overweight individuals (BMI ≥25), accurate measurement is crucial for health assessment and weight management.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a modified Jackson-Pollock equation adjusted for overweight individuals:

Where:

• Sum of skinfolds — Combined measurement of 3-7 skinfold sites (mm)
• Age — In years
• BMI — Body Mass Index (kg/m²)
• Gender adjustment — Additional 5% for females
• BMI adjustment — 1% increase per BMI unit above 25

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between skinfold thickness and body fat percentage, with adjustments for age, gender, and BMI.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: For overweight individuals, body fat percentage provides a more accurate health assessment than BMI alone, helping to distinguish between fat mass and muscle mass.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter sum of skinfolds in mm (typically chest, abdomen, thigh for men; triceps, suprailiac, thigh for women), age in years, gender, and current BMI (must be ≥25).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why a special calculator for overweight individuals?
A: Standard equations may underestimate body fat in overweight/obese individuals due to different fat distribution patterns.

Q2: What are healthy body fat ranges for overweight individuals?
A: For men: 15-25%; For women: 25-35%. However, optimal ranges may vary based on health status.

Q3: How to properly measure skinfolds?
A: Use calibrated calipers, measure on the right side of the body, take multiple readings at each site, and average them.

Q4: Are there limitations to this method?
A: Accuracy decreases at very high BMI (>35) and may be affected by hydration status and skin thickness.

Q5: How often should I measure my body fat?
A: Every 4-8 weeks when actively trying to lose fat, to monitor progress and adjust programs.