Body Fat Percentage

Definition

Body fat percentage is the proportion of your body weight that is made up of fat. It is a simpler measure of body composition than weight or BMI.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Body fat percentage refers to the total mass of fat divided by total body mass, multiplied by 100. This measurement includes both essential body fat and storage body fat. Essential body fat is necessary to maintain life and reproductive functions, while storage body fat accumulates for energy reserves.

Benefits

• Helps in assessing overall health and fitness levels.
• Vital for determining an individual's risk for obesity-related conditions.
• Essential in tracking progress during weight management programs.

Examples

• Using calipers to measure skinfold thickness at various points on the body.
• Utilizing bioelectrical impedance scales that estimate body fat based on resistance to electrical current.
• Undergoing a DEXA scan which provides an in-depth analysis of body composition.

Additional Information

• Importance: Body fat percentage is important for assessing the balance between fat and muscle in the body, which can influence fitness, health, and physical appearance.

Related Terms

• Body Mass Index
• Lean Body Mass
• Body Composition
• Essential Fat
• Storage Fat

References

• American Council on Exercise: Body Fat Percentage Calculator
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Health Risks of Being Overweight