What Is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage is the proportion of total body weight that is fat tissue. Unlike BMI, it distinguishes fat from lean mass such as muscle, bone, and water. It can be estimated with body measurements, skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance scales, or imaging methods such as DEXA scans.
Common Estimation Methods
The US Navy method estimates body fat from height and circumference measurements of the neck, waist, and (for women) hips. Laboratory methods are generally more accurate than tape-measure or scale-based estimates.
Body Fat vs. BMI
Two people with the same BMI can have very different body fat percentages depending on muscle mass.
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Last updated: September 27, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.