1. What is the NHS Body Fat Calculator?

The NHS Body Fat Calculator estimates body fat percentage using BMI and age. This simple formula provides a quick assessment of body composition, particularly useful for men.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the NHS formula for men:

Where:

• \( BMI \) — Body Mass Index (kg/m²)
• \( Age \) — Age in years

Note: Currently only the male formula is available in this calculator.

3. Importance of Body Fat Percentage

Details: Body fat percentage provides a more accurate measure of health than BMI alone, helping assess risk for various health conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your BMI (calculate as weight in kg divided by height in meters squared), age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (BMI > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is there only a male formula?
A: This specific BMI-based formula was developed for men. Different formulas may be needed for women.

Q2: What are healthy body fat percentages?
A: For men: 6-24% is generally healthy. For women: 16-30% is generally healthy (though not calculated by this formula).

Q3: How accurate is this method?
A: BMI-based formulas provide estimates only. More accurate methods include skinfold measurements or DEXA scans.

Q4: Should athletes use this calculator?
A: BMI-based formulas may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals as they don't distinguish between muscle and fat.

Q5: How often should I measure body fat?
A: For most people, every 3-6 months is sufficient to track meaningful changes.