1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the proportion of fat to total body weight. It provides a more accurate assessment of health and fitness than body weight alone, as it distinguishes between fat mass and lean body mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator estimates body fat percentage based on skinfold measurements:

Where:

• Measurement 1 — Skinfold thickness at specific site (mm)
• Age — Age in years
• Gender — Biological sex (different formulas for males/females)

Explanation: The equation accounts for differences in fat distribution between genders and changes in body composition with age.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Knowing your body fat percentage helps assess health risks, track fitness progress, and develop appropriate nutrition and exercise plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter accurate skinfold measurements taken with calipers at standard anatomical sites. Measurements should be taken by a trained professional for best results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy body fat percentage?
A: For men: 6-24%, for women: 16-30%. Optimal ranges vary by age and athletic goals.

Q2: How accurate are skinfold measurements?
A: When performed correctly by an experienced technician, skinfold measurements can be within 3-5% of more advanced methods.

Q3: Where should measurements be taken?
A: Common sites include triceps, chest, abdomen, thigh, and suprailiac, depending on the specific formula used.

Q4: Are there other methods to measure body fat?
A: Yes, including DEXA scans, hydrostatic weighing, BIA, and 3D body scanning.

Q5: How often should I measure my body fat?
A: Every 4-8 weeks is sufficient to track meaningful changes.