Body Metrics
Body Fat Percentage Ranges for Adults
What ranges are considered essential, athletic, fit, average, and high — and why those labels are blunt instruments.
6 min read·Updated 25 June 2026
HG
HealthGood Editorial Team
Last updated 25 June 2026
Reviewed by HealthGood Editorial Standards Board
Healthy body fat percentage ranges differ between men and women due to essential fat requirements for hormonal and reproductive function.
American Council on Exercise (ACE) ranges
Men
- Essential: 2–5%
- Athletic: 6–13%
- Fit: 14–17%
- Average: 18–24%
- Obese: 25%+
Women
- Essential: 10–13%
- Athletic: 14–20%
- Fit: 21–24%
- Average: 25–31%
- Obese: 32%+
Frequently asked questions
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References
- World Health Organization — Body mass index (BMI). https://www.who.int
- NHS — Healthy weight and BMI. https://www.nhs.uk
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity. https://www.cdc.gov
- Mifflin MD, St Jeor ST, et al. A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure. Am J Clin Nutr (1990).