Beyond BMI

While BMI is a quick screening tool, it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Body Fat Percentage is a more accurate indicator of fitness and health risk.

Essential Fat vs. Storage Fat

• Essential Fat: Necessary for life functions (warmth, organ protection, hormone regulation).
  • Men: ~2-5%
  • Women: ~10-13%
• Storage Fat: Accumulated energy reserves. Excess amounts correlate with health risks.

Healthy Ranges

| Category | Men | Women | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Athletes | 6-13% | 14-20% | | Fitness | 14-17% | 21-24% | | Average | 18-24% | 25-31% | | Obese | 25%+ | 32%+ |

Note: These ranges vary slightly by age and source.

Measuring It

Common methods include:

1. Skinfold Calipers: Measures thickness of skin folds.
2. Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA): Smart scales (convenient but sensitive to hydration).
3. DEXA Scan: The gold standard (medical imaging).