1. What is Body Fat Percentage?

Body fat percentage is the total mass of fat divided by total body mass, expressed as a percentage. It provides a more accurate assessment of body composition than BMI alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Siri equation:

Where:

• Density — Body density in g/cm³ (typically measured through hydrostatic weighing or skinfold measurements)

Explanation: The equation converts body density to fat percentage, accounting for the different densities of fat and lean tissue.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Knowing your body fat percentage helps assess health risks, track fitness progress, and design appropriate nutrition and exercise programs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter body density in g/cm³. Typical values range from 1.025 to 1.100 g/cm³. Values must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a healthy body fat percentage?
A: For men: 6-24%, for women: 16-30%, with athletic ranges typically lower.

Q2: How is body density measured?
A: Most accurately via hydrostatic weighing, but can be estimated through skinfold measurements or bioelectrical impedance.

Q3: Why use this instead of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle, while body fat percentage directly measures body composition.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: Accuracy depends on precise density measurement and assumes standard fat/lean tissue densities.

Q5: What affects body density?
A: Bone density, muscle mass, hydration levels, and fat distribution all influence body density.