There are several ways to calculate body fat percentage, but one common and practical method involves using body measurements combined with specific formulas. Here's a summary of key ways to calculate body fat:
Common Methods
- Using Body Measurements and Formulas:
- Collect data: age, sex, weight, height, and body circumference measurements (neck, waist, hips for women).
- Apply the U.S. Navy Method formula, which uses these measurements to estimate body fat percentage.
- Formulas also exist using BMI combined with age and sex for a rough estimate.
- Skinfold Calipers:
- Measure the thickness of skinfolds at specific body locations (e.g., triceps, abdomen, thigh).
- Use a formula based on these measurements to estimate body fat percentage.
- Accuracy depends on the skill of the person taking measurements.
- Advanced Techniques (for higher accuracy):
- Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA)
- Hydrostatic Weighing
- Air Displacement Plethysmography
These require specialized equipment and are usually done in clinical settings.
Example U.S. Navy Formula (Metric Units)
-
For men:
\text{Body fat %}=86.010\times \log_{10}(\text{abdomen}-\text{neck})-70.041\times \log_{10}(\text{height})+36.76 -
For women:
\text{Body fat %}=163.205\times \log_{10}(\text{waist}+\text{hip}-\text{neck})-97.684\times \log_{10}(\text{height})-78.387
BMI-Based Estimate Formula
\text{Body fat %}=1.20\times BMI+0.23\times \text{age}-10.8\times
\text{sex}-5.4
(where sex = 1 for male, 0 for female)
Practical Notes
- Skinfold and circumference methods require measuring tools (calipers or tape).
- BMI methods need only height and weight but are less precise.
- Results are estimates and vary by body type and measurement skill.
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