US Navy Method · ACE Body Composition Categories
Last reviewed: January 2025
How to measure: Use a flexible tape measure. Neck: below the larynx. Waist: at the navel for men, at the narrowest point for women. Hip (women only): at the widest point of the buttocks.
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | 2 – 5% | 10 – 13% |
| Athletes | 6 – 13% | 14 – 20% |
| Fitness | 14 – 17% | 21 – 24% |
| Average | 18 – 24% | 25 – 31% |
| Obese | ≥ 25% | ≥ 32% |