Excess body fat rather than excess weight is now seen as the major indicator of weight-related health problems. For a general guide to desirable body fat levels, see the following body-fat-percent table.
Body Fat Guidelines from American Council on Exercise
| Classification | Women (% Fat) | Men (% Fat) |
| Essential Fat | 10-12 percent | 2-4 percent |
| Athletes | 14-20 percent | 6-13 percent |
| Fitness | 21-24 percent | 14-17 percent |
| Acceptable | 25-31 percent | 18-25 percent |