1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body Fat Percentage (BFP) is the total mass of fat divided by total body mass, multiplied by 100. It provides a more accurate assessment of body composition than BMI alone, as it distinguishes between fat mass and lean body mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( BMI \) — Body Mass Index (kg/m²)
• \( age \) — Age in years
• \( \text{gender constant} \) — 16.2 for males, 5.4 for females

Explanation: This equation estimates body fat percentage based on BMI, age, and gender, providing a quick assessment of body composition.

3. Importance of Body Fat Percentage

Details: Monitoring body fat percentage is crucial for assessing health risks associated with obesity, tracking fitness progress, and determining appropriate weight management strategies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter BMI in kg/m², age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (BMI > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy body fat percentage range?
A: For men: 8-19% (athletes), 20-24% (fitness), 25%+ (obese). For women: 21-33% (athletes), 34-39% (fitness), 40%+ (obese).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This formula provides a reasonable estimate but may not be as accurate as specialized methods like DEXA scans or hydrostatic weighing.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for all age groups?
A: While it works for adults, the formula may be less accurate for children, adolescents, and elderly individuals.

Q4: How often should I measure my body fat percentage?
A: For tracking purposes, monthly measurements are sufficient as body fat changes gradually over time.

Q5: What factors can affect body fat percentage accuracy?
A: Hydration levels, recent exercise, and measurement timing can all influence the results. For best accuracy, measure under consistent conditions.