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UNDERSTANDING HEALTHY BODY FAT PERCENTAGE RANGES

Woman measuring her body fat

Navigating the Varied Benchmarks by Age, Gender, and Fitness Levels for Informed Health and Fitness Goals

Body fat percentage ranges can vary based on factors such as age, gender, and fitness level.

However, generally speaking, here are the approximate ranges considered healthy for men and women:




For Men

Essential body fat 2-5%
Athletes 6-13%
Fitness enthusiasts 14-17%
Average 18-24%
Overweight 25% and above


For Women

Essential body fat 10-13%
Athletes 14-20%
Fitness enthusiasts 21-24%
Average 25-31%
Overweight 32% and above


It's important to note that these are rough guidelines, and individual health and fitness goals can influence what is considered an acceptable body fat percentage. Additionally, other methods of assessing health, such as waist circumference and overall fitness, should be considered alongside body fat percentage. Always consult with healthcare or fitness professionals for personalized advice.

Woman measuring her body fat

Navigating the Varied Benchmarks by Age, Gender, and Fitness Levels for Informed Health and Fitness Goals

Body fat percentage ranges can vary based on factors such as age, gender, and fitness level.

However, generally speaking, here are the approximate ranges considered healthy for men and women:




For Men

Essential body fat 2-5%
Athletes 6-13%
Fitness enthusiasts 14-17%
Average 18-24%
Overweight 25% and above


For Women

Essential body fat 10-13%
Athletes 14-20%
Fitness enthusiasts 21-24%
Average 25-31%
Overweight 32% and above


It's important to note that these are rough guidelines, and individual health and fitness goals can influence what is considered an acceptable body fat percentage. Additionally, other methods of assessing health, such as waist circumference and overall fitness, should be considered alongside body fat percentage. Always consult with healthcare or fitness professionals for personalized advice.

Publication Date:

Dec 04, 2023