A quick estimate using weight, age, and waist size.
Skinfold Method
Skin calipers will provide a far more accurate way of measuring body fat. Ensure that measurements are taken at exactly the same places each time.
Body fat percentage is a superior indicator of health and wellness compared to body weight (or BMI).
Unfortunately some weight loss programs result in loss of muscle mass – you lose weight but maintain the same level of body fat (referred to as a "skinny fat" person).
Skinfold measurements are generally more accurate predictors of body fat than BMI. Waist circumference and waist-stature ratio can also help indicate body fatness. However these can be an inaccurate measure of estimating percentage body fat.
Based on categories defined by the American Council on Exercise.
MEN | WOMEN | |
Essential Fat | 2-5% | 10-13% ** |
Athletes | 6-14% | 14-20% ** |
14-17% | 21-24% | |
Acceptable | 18-24% | 25-31% |
Obesity* | 25%+ | 32%+ |
*Men are considered borderline at 25% body fat and clinically obese at 30%, while women are borderline at 30% and clinically obese at 35% body fat.
**A lower body fat percentage for women increases chance of amenorrhea (cessation of menstruation).
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It’s not easy, so follow these 4 steps to ensure the most accuracy.
Another way to measure body fat is to use a body fat analyzer.
These tools measure body fat using Bioelectric Impedance Analysis (BIA). A very low power current is passed through the body, and makes an assessment based on the level of water content in the body (muscle holds a high water content while fat holds a low content).
Analyzer tools cost more, but are easier to use compared with fat calipers.
If you are obese, you will find it easier to use a body fat analyzer.
As you become slimmer you may find calipers provide a more accurate result (as it is easier to "pinch" the fat).
Body fat is deposited in 3 places,
Skinfold calipers measure the subcutaneous fat, and from this, derive a body fat percentage.
This explains why body fat analyzers are better for more obese people, as the amount if internal fat will normally be higher (and is not picked up by the fat calipers).
See more about fat distribution here.
An ideal weight loss regimen would result in loss of fat while still maintaining (or even building) more muscle.
Muscle is metabolically active and burns calories just by sitting still! Not surprisingly this is very difficult to achieve.
Simply dropping food intake and doing nothing else will usually result in a loss of fat as well as muscle.