What Does 27% Body Fat Look Like on a Woman?
What 27% body fat looks like on a woman and how to track your progress
Last updated: February 8, 2026

Shown: 28% body fat (closest visual reference)
What 27% Body Fat Looks Like
Average healthy female body. Soft midsection. Moderate fat on hips, thighs, and upper arms. Rounded face. No visible muscle definition.
Body Composition at 27%
Based on a 5'5", 150 lb woman:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Fat Mass | 40.5 lbs (18.4 kg) |
| Lean Mass | 109.5 lbs (49.7 kg) |
| Body Fat Percentage | 27% |
Daily Calorie Needs (TDEE)
Estimated using the Katch-McArdle formula based on 109.5 lbs of lean mass:
| Activity Level | Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) | 1,444 |
| Sedentary (desk job) | 1,733 |
| Lightly Active (1-3 days/week) | 1,986 |
| Moderately Active (3-5 days/week) | 2,238 |
| Very Active (6-7 days/week) | 2,491 |
Suggested Macros
Based on moderate activity (2,238 cal/day):
110g
Protein
315g
Carbs
60g
Fat
How Long to Reach 27%
| Starting From | To Change | Est. Weeks | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22% body fat | 7.5 lbs | ~20 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 25% body fat | 3 lbs | ~8 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 30% body fat | 4.5 lbs | ~6 weeks | 0.5-1 lb |
| 35% body fat | 12 lbs | ~16 weeks | 0.5-1 lb |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to 27% body fat?
Starting from 30% body fat, it would take approximately 6 weeks to reach 27% at a safe rate of 0.5-1 lb per week. This assumes a consistent caloric deficit and regular exercise.
What should I eat at 27% body fat?
At 27% body fat, aim for approximately 110g 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.
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