A familiar situation
Use a rough adult body-fat estimate when a direct body-composition measurement is unavailable, keeping its error in mind.
How to use this calculator
- Enter weight, height, age and the remaining inputs.
- Select Calculate to see the answer and its breakdown.
- Keep a scenario, change an input and compare the results.
Use consistent units and check the assumptions below before applying the result.
How body fat is calculated
Deurenberg adult estimate: body fat % = 1.20×BMI + 0.23×age − 10.8×sex − 5.4, with male=1 and female=0 in the original equation. A 30-year-old man with BMI 25 has an estimated body fat of about 27.6%.
Body fat %=1.20×BMI+0.23×age−10.8×sex−5.4; male=1, female=0.A 30-year-old man with BMI 25 has an estimated body fat of about 27.6%.
Assumptions & useful context
Population equation; individual error can be substantial.
Health calculations are estimates for education. They cannot diagnose a condition or replace a clinician’s assessment. Individual needs vary, especially during pregnancy, illness and growth.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a DEXA result?
No. It is an indirect estimate with meaningful individual error.
Does the equation apply to children?
No. The adult equation is not designed for children or adolescents.