What Does 42% Body Fat Look Like on a Woman?
What 42% body fat looks like on a woman and how to track your progress
Last updated: February 8, 2026
Shown: 40% body fat (closest visual reference)
What 42% Body Fat Looks Like
Very obese. Large belly, wide frame. Significant fat on hips, thighs, and arms. Skin folds visible. Round puffy face.
Body Composition at 42%
Based on a 5'5", 150 lb woman:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Fat Mass | 63 lbs (28.6 kg) |
| Lean Mass | 87 lbs (39.5 kg) |
| Body Fat Percentage | 42% |
Daily Calorie Needs (TDEE)
Estimated using the Katch-McArdle formula based on 87 lbs of lean mass:
| Activity Level | Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) | 1,223 |
| Sedentary (desk job) | 1,468 |
| Lightly Active (1-3 days/week) | 1,682 |
| Moderately Active (3-5 days/week) | 1,896 |
| Very Active (6-7 days/week) | 2,110 |
Suggested Macros
Based on moderate activity (1,896 cal/day):
87g
Protein
252g
Carbs
60g
Fat
How Long to Reach 42%
| Starting From | To Change | Est. Weeks | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22% body fat | 30 lbs | ~80 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 25% body fat | 25.5 lbs | ~68 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 30% body fat | 18 lbs | ~48 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 35% body fat | 10.5 lbs | ~28 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 42% body fat healthy for a woman?
42% body fat falls in the ACE "Obese" category for women (32%+). This is above the average range and carries moderate health risk. Reducing body fat through diet and exercise can improve health markers.
What does 42% body fat look like on a woman?
Very obese. Large belly, wide frame. Significant fat on hips, thighs, and arms. Skin folds visible. Round puffy face.
Can you see abs at 42% body fat on a woman?
No. At 42% body fat, abs are not visible on most women. This is completely normal and healthy.
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