A circumference-based body fat percentage calculator uses the measurement of body circumferences, primarily the waist and hip circumferences, to estimate the percentage of body fat. This method is commonly used for fitness assessments, weight management programs, and medical evaluations.
Body fat percentage calculators based on circumference are significant as they offer a convenient, non-invasive, and relatively inexpensive way to monitor body composition. They provide insights into health risks associated with excess body fat, such as obesity-related diseases like cardiovascular complications, metabolic disorders, and certain types of cancer. The development of these calculators dates back to the 1960s and 1970s, with researchers like Durnin et al. playing a crucial role in establishing equations that relate circumference measurements to body fat percentage.