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WHAT DOES IT
MEAN?
Understanding the numbers. Knowing
your body fat percentage is an important first step at the onset of any fitness
or dietary program. An accurate body composition analysis provides a baseline
for tracking progress, in addition to offering motivational feedback along the
way. Be sure to measure your body composition regularly as you work towards your
fitness and nutritional goals.
| Body Fat Rating |
Men* |
Women* |
| Risky
(high body fat) |
>30% |
>40% |
| Excess
Fat |
21 - 30% |
31 - 40% |
|
Moderately Lean |
13 - 20% |
23 - 30% |
| Lean |
9 - 12% |
19 - 22% |
| Ultra
Lean |
5 - 8% |
15 - 18% |
| Risky
(low body fat) |
<5% |
<15% |
*Applies to adults ages 18 and older. Based on information from the American
College of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise, Exercise
Physiology [4th Ed] by McArdle, Katch, and Katch, and various scientific and
epidemiological studies.
Risky (high body fat): Too much body fat can pose serious health risks.
Ask your health care professional about how to safely modify your body
composition.
Excess Fat: Indicates an excess accumulation of fat over time.
Moderately Lean: Fat level is acceptable for good health
Lean: Lower body fat levels than many people. This range is excellent for
health and longevity.
Ultra Lean: Fat levels sometimes found in elite athletes.
Risky (low body fat): Too little body fat can present health risks,
especially for women. If in doubt, check with your health care professional.
Body Fat: A certain amount of fat is absolutely necessary for good
health. Fat plays an important role in protecting internal organs, providing
energy, and regulating hormones. For men, the minimal amount of "essential fat"
is approximately 3-5%. For women, "essential fat" is approximately 12-15%. If
too much fat accumulates over the years, health may be compromised.
Lean Mass: Lean mass is everything except the fat. It includes muscle,
water, bone, and internal organs. Muscle is the "metabolic engine" of the body
that burns calories (fat) and plays an important role in maintaining strength
and energy. Healthy levels of lean mass contribute to physical fitness and may
prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.
Additional pages:
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is It Measured?
What Does It Mean?
What Is Body Composition?
Why is Body Composition Important?
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