Lean mass guide
Lean Mass Calculator for Women
Estimate female lean body mass with sex-specific equations, body fat override, fat mass, and protein targets.
Last updated: · Reviewed by the Lean Mass Calculator editorial team
Who this page is for
Women estimating lean mass for fitness, nutrition, or body-composition tracking.
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.
Why women use different coefficients
Women generally carry more essential body fat than men, so the Boer, James, and Hume equations use female-specific coefficients.
A very low body fat input can produce misleading results for women. The calculator blocks values below a realistic essential-fat range.
Using lean mass for nutrition
Lean body mass can be a better protein reference than scale weight, especially when body fat percentage is known.
During a calorie deficit, aim for a consistent protein intake and resistance training so weight loss is more likely to come from fat mass.
Frequently asked questions
Is lean mass lower for women?
Women often have a lower lean-mass percentage than men at the same body weight, largely because essential fat needs are higher.
Which method should women use?
Use measured body fat percentage when available. Otherwise, Boer is the default formula for a practical estimate.
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)