How to Decrease Body Fat Percentage: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

This article was co-authored by Laura Flinn and by wikiHow staff writer, Annabelle Reyes. Laura Flinn is a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer, USA Olympic Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach and Certified Fitness Nutritionist, with an additional qualification as a TRX Suspension Trainer. Laura runs her own personal training program based in the San Francisco Bay Area and specializes in topics such as weight loss, muscle growth, cardiovascular training, and strength training.

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The fitness savvy know that it’s not about that number on the scale — it’s about your body fat percentage. The recommended healthy range for body fat is 25-31% for women and 18-24% for men, though this may vary depending on age or athletic status.[1] Whatever level you are at, getting rid of body fat is just plain difficult. But with a combination of diet, exercise, and health conscious habits, your ideal percentage can be attained.

This article is partially based on an interview with Laura Flinn, NASM Certified Personal Trainer.

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.