Body fat percentage is the amount of body fat as a proportion of total body mass. It's considered a more accurate measure of fitness and health than weight alone.
U.S. Navy Method:
Skinfold Measurements:
Hydrostatic Weighing:
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA):
DEXA Scan:
For men:
For women:
BMI is a simple measure using height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy.
BMI = weight (kg) / height² (m²)
While BMI is easier to calculate, it has limitations:
Body fat percentage is generally considered more accurate for assessing fitness and health risks, especially for athletes or those with high muscle mass.
Excess body fat is linked to various health risks:
However, having too little body fat can also be unhealthy, affecting hormone production and organ protection.
To achieve a healthier body composition:
Remember, while these measurements provide valuable information, they should be interpreted in the context of overall health and lifestyle. It's always best to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.