Lean Body Mass Formula
Estimate your lean body mass (everything except fat).
Used in fitness planning and medication dosing.
The Formula
Boer Formula:
Men: LBM = 0.407W + 0.267H - 19.2
Women: LBM = 0.252W + 0.473H - 48.3
Men: LBM = 0.407W + 0.267H - 19.2
Women: LBM = 0.252W + 0.473H - 48.3
Lean body mass is your total weight minus all fat tissue. It includes muscle, bone, organs, and water. Higher LBM generally indicates better physical fitness.
Variables
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| LBM | Lean body mass (kg) |
| W | Body weight (kg). To convert from lbs: divide by 2.205 |
| H | Height (cm). To convert from inches: multiply by 2.54 |
Example 1
A man weighing 85 kg (187 lbs) and 180 cm (5'11") tall
LBM = 0.407 × 85 + 0.267 × 180 - 19.2
LBM = 34.6 + 48.1 - 19.2
LBM ≈ 63.5 kg (estimated body fat ≈ 25.3%)
Example 2
A woman weighing 65 kg (143 lbs) and 165 cm (5'5") tall
LBM = 0.252 × 65 + 0.473 × 165 - 48.3
LBM = 16.4 + 78.0 - 48.3
LBM ≈ 46.1 kg (estimated body fat ≈ 29.1%)
When to Use It
Use the lean body mass formula when:
- Estimating body composition without specialized equipment
- Calculating medication doses based on lean mass
- Setting protein intake and caloric goals for muscle building
- Tracking changes in body composition during training