What Does Your Body Fat Percentage Mean?

The two-component model of body composition categorizes body weight as fat mass or fat-free mass, known as lean mass. According to the article "Getting a Grip on Body Composition" by Lenny Kravitz, Ph.D., and Vivian H. Heyward, Ph.D., lean body mass represents the weight of your muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and internal organs. Understanding the meaning behind your body-fat percentage allows you to assess your current body composition fitness level.

Facts

Body fat percentage represents the amount of your total weight comprised of fat. A 100-lb. person with 20 lbs. of fat has a fat percentage of 20 percent. According to the book "Nutrition for Health, Fitness and Sport" by Melvin H. Williams, a high percentage of body fat is associated with numerous health issues such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. A low body-fat percentage is associated with reduced energy and impairment of reproductive and immune system function.

Testing Methods

Testing methods vary in price, procedure and accuracy. Simple methods include skin fold measurement, bioelectrical impedance and measurement of specific body sites. Clinical methods are most accurate and include underwater weighing in a hydrostatic tank, air displacement plethysmography and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Most procedures require minimal action by the test subject. Underwater weighing requires you to exhale all of your air while being submerged underwater for approximately 15 seconds.

Male Body Fat Percentage

A healthy body fat range for men is between 10 and 25 percent. For optimal function, men should maintain a fat percentage of at least 5 percent; athletes tend to fall between 5 and 13 percent. A percentage over 25 is categorized as obese.

Female Body Fat Percentage

A healthy body fat range for women is between 18 and 30 percent. For optimal function, women should maintain a fat percentage of at least 8 percent; female athletes tend to fall between 12 and 22 percent. A percentage over 30 is categorized as obese.

Considerations

Body fat percentage cannot be directly measured in a living person. Therefore, all methods represent ways to estimate your body fat percentage using scientifically tested procedures. Finding a skilled test administrator is one way to obtain a result that is as accurate as possible. Most universities offer fitness tests to the community at reduced cost. Assessment of body composition does not replace medical evaluation or advice. Factors such as medical and family history also contribute to overall fitness.