Lean mass guide
DEXA Lean Mass Calculator Guide
Learn how to use DEXA body fat percentage with the lean mass calculator and interpret scan-based lean mass.
Last updated: · Reviewed by the Lean Mass Calculator editorial team
Who this page is for
People with DEXA scan results who want to calculate or interpret lean body mass.
Start with the main lean mass calculator, then use the related tools below when you need body fat, FFMI, protein, or calorie context.
Interactive Calculator
Use this calculator to find your specific numbers before continuing with the guide.
Using DEXA with the calculator
Enter your DEXA body fat percentage into the homepage calculator. That direct method overrides Boer, James, and Hume.
DEXA reports may also show regional lean mass, which is more detailed than a simple whole-body calculator estimate.
Interpreting scan changes
Hydration, glycogen, and scan conditions can still influence DEXA lean-mass readings, so compare scans taken under similar conditions.
For most users, the trend across multiple scans is more useful than one isolated result.
Frequently asked questions
Is DEXA better than a calculator formula?
Yes. A measured body fat percentage from DEXA is generally better than estimating lean mass from height and weight alone.
Should I enter DEXA lean mass directly?
If your report gives lean mass directly, use that value for tracking. Use body fat percentage when you want this site's derived calculations.
Sources & references
The estimates on this page use published lean body mass equations and clinical reference ranges. See the full reference charts on the lean body mass chart hub.
- Estimated lean body mass as an index for normalization of body fluid volumes — Boer P, American Journal of Physiology (PubMed) (1984)
- Percent Body Fat Norms and Reference Ranges — American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- Body Composition — Reference Information — National Institutes of Health (NCBI Bookshelf)