US Navy Method
A practical circumference-based method developed by the US Navy for field use. Requires only a tape measure and provides reliable body fat estimates without the need for specialized equipment.
Method Overview
Developed by Hodgdon and Beckett (1984) at the Naval Health Research Center. Uses circumference measurements and height to estimate body fat percentage. Validated against hydrostatic weighing with correlation coefficients of 0.85-0.88.
- Accuracy: ±4-6% compared to hydrostatic weighing
- Validated on 5,000+ military personnel
- Gender-specific equations
- Accounts for body shape variations
- Used in military fitness assessments
Measurement Protocol
Measurement Sites
For Men:
- Height
- Neck circumference
- Waist circumference (at navel)
For Women:
- Height
- Neck circumference
- Waist circumference (at navel)
- Hip circumference (at widest point)
Measurement Tips:
- Measure in the morning before eating
- Stand straight with muscles relaxed
- Ensure tape is snug but not compressing the skin
- Take measurements twice for accuracy
- Keep tape measure parallel to the floor