What Does 47% Body Fat Look Like on a Man?
Understanding 47% body fat: health risks, medical context, and paths to a healthier body composition
Last updated: February 8, 2026
Health Notice
47% body fat falls into the clinical obesity range and is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, joint problems, and reduced life expectancy.
Shown: 45% body fat (closest visual reference)
What 47% Body Fat Looks Like
Morbidly obese. Massive belly. Body shape dominated by fat deposits. Limbs very thick. Multiple skin folds.
Body Composition at 47%
Based on a 5'10", 180 lb man:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Weight | 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| Fat Mass | 84.6 lbs (38.4 kg) |
| Lean Mass | 95.4 lbs (43.3 kg) |
| Body Fat Percentage | 47% |
Daily Calorie Needs (TDEE)
Estimated using the Katch-McArdle formula based on 95.4 lbs of lean mass:
| Activity Level | Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) | 1,305 |
| Sedentary (desk job) | 1,566 |
| Lightly Active (1-3 days/week) | 1,794 |
| Moderately Active (3-5 days/week) | 2,023 |
| Very Active (6-7 days/week) | 2,251 |
Suggested Macros
Based on moderate activity (2,023 cal/day):
95g
Protein
249g
Carbs
72g
Fat
How Long to Reach 47%
| Starting From | To Change | Est. Weeks | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15% body fat | 57.6 lbs | ~154 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 20% body fat | 48.6 lbs | ~130 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 25% body fat | 39.6 lbs | ~106 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 30% body fat | 30.6 lbs | ~82 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 47% body fat the same for men and women?
No. The same percentage looks and means different things for men and women. 47% body fat on a man falls in the "Obese" category, while on a woman it falls in the "Obese" category. Women carry more essential fat for reproductive and hormonal function.
Is 47% body fat healthy for a man?
47% body fat falls in the ACE "Obese" category for men (25%+). This level carries elevated health risks and may benefit from medical guidance and a structured fat loss plan.
What does 47% body fat look like on a man?
Morbidly obese. Massive belly. Body shape dominated by fat deposits. Limbs very thick. Multiple skin folds.
More in Obese
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