Optimal Body Fat Percentage?

[Brat]

In your opinion, what would be the best body fat percentage for females?? I got measured today at 16%...But yet there are still areas of improvement...

 

[DirkMoneyshot]

Well that depends on the goal - Competition, General Fitness, Figure, Fitness ect: What do you plan on doing -

For me personally i like my GF around 13%, however she doesn't compete but justs works out to stay fit - To me she looks athletic and lean but not overly veiny and lean.

 

[Brat]

Well...the only goal I have is, well, obviously, military...so I would say general fitness...that, and I really want the hard work I do in the gym to actually show more...

 

[DirkMoneyshot]

Then i would shoot for 12%. Typically if you go any lower than that on a female you run into menstration problem. Also if you plan on going into the military, having a little fat won't kill you. The miltary is more aerobic in nature (Endurance) and you need some fat stores to tap into.

Hope that helps.

 

[Brat]

That does help...thank you!

 

[rubberduckyo]

IMO there is no reason other than competition to drop below 12%. That's pretty damn lean for a lady. I think trying to maintain anything lower will mess with your hormonal balance particularly estrogen levels. Could affect your menstrual cycle as well as overall reproductive health.

Keep in mind also the the ladies who ARE competing only drop below this % mark for a brief period of time. It's simply not maintainable for an extended period of time without health risks.

I think you're perfectly fine for your intentions where you are.