What Does 27% Body Fat Look Like on a Man?
What 27% body fat looks like on a man and how to track your progress
Last updated: February 8, 2026
Shown: 25% body fat (closest visual reference)
What 27% Body Fat Looks Like
Soft, prominent belly. Pronounced love handles. Chest soft and rounded. Arms thick with no definition. Fuller face with beginning of double chin.
Body Composition at 27%
Based on a 5'10", 180 lb man:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Weight | 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| Fat Mass | 48.6 lbs (22 kg) |
| Lean Mass | 131.4 lbs (59.6 kg) |
| Body Fat Percentage | 27% |
Daily Calorie Needs (TDEE)
Estimated using the Katch-McArdle formula based on 131.4 lbs of lean mass:
| Activity Level | Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) | 1,657 |
| Sedentary (desk job) | 1,988 |
| Lightly Active (1-3 days/week) | 2,278 |
| Moderately Active (3-5 days/week) | 2,568 |
| Very Active (6-7 days/week) | 2,858 |
Suggested Macros
Based on moderate activity (2,568 cal/day):
131g
Protein
349g
Carbs
72g
Fat
How Long to Reach 27%
| Starting From | To Change | Est. Weeks | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15% body fat | 21.6 lbs | ~58 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 20% body fat | 12.6 lbs | ~34 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 25% body fat | 3.6 lbs | ~10 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 30% body fat | 5.4 lbs | ~7 weeks | 0.5-1 lb |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to 27% body fat?
If you are currently at 25% and gaining, reaching 27% would happen over time without intervention. To prevent further gain, a modest caloric deficit of 300-500 calories per day is recommended.
What should I eat at 27% body fat?
At 27% body fat, aim for approximately 131g of protein daily (1g per pound of lean mass). Fill remaining calories with a balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats based on your activity level and goals.
Is 27% body fat the same for men and women?
No. The same percentage looks and means different things for men and women. 27% body fat on a man falls in the "Obese" category, while on a woman it falls in the "Average" category. Women carry more essential fat for reproductive and hormonal function.
More in Obese
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