Between 20 and 39, a healthy body fat is 8 to 20% for men and 21 to 33% for women. The ranges rise a little with age.
General information, not medical advice. Read the disclaimer
| Age | Underfat | Healthy | Overfat | Obese |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20–24 | < 8% | 8–20% | 20–25% | ≥ 25% |
| 25–29 | < 8% | 8–20% | 20–25% | ≥ 25% |
| 30–34 | < 8% | 8–20% | 20–25% | ≥ 25% |
| 35–39 | < 8% | 8–20% | 20–25% | ≥ 25% |
| 40–44 | < 11% | 11–22% | 22–28% | ≥ 28% |
| 45–49 | < 11% | 11–22% | 22–28% | ≥ 28% |
| 50–54 | < 11% | 11–22% | 22–28% | ≥ 28% |
| 55–59 | < 11% | 11–22% | 22–28% | ≥ 28% |
| 60–64 | < 13% | 13–25% | 25–30% | ≥ 30% |
| 65–69 | < 13% | 13–25% | 25–30% | ≥ 30% |
| 70–74 | < 13% | 13–25% | 25–30% | ≥ 30% |
| 75–79 | < 13% | 13–25% | 25–30% | ≥ 30% |
How it is computed
The bands come from Gallagher et al. (2000), who matched body fat measured by DXA to BMI 18.5, 25 and 30 in three age groups: 20–39, 40–59 and 60–79. Each range runs up to the start of the next one.
FAQ
Why are women's ranges higher?+
Women carry more essential fat, linked to hormones and reproduction, so the same health risk shows up at a higher percentage.
How do I measure my body fat?+
DXA scans are the most accurate. The calculator uses the US Navy tape method (waist, neck and, for women, hips), which is within a few points for most people.