What Does 47% Body Fat Look Like on a Woman?
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
Severely obese. Very large hanging belly. Extremely wide hips and thighs. Massive fat deposits. Extremely round face.
Body Composition at 47%
Based on a 5'5", 150 lb woman:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Fat Mass | 70.5 lbs (32 kg) |
| Lean Mass | 79.5 lbs (36.1 kg) |
| Body Fat Percentage | 47% |
Daily Calorie Needs (TDEE)
Estimated using the Katch-McArdle formula based on 79.5 lbs of lean mass:
| Activity Level | Calories/Day |
|---|---|
| BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) | 1,150 |
| Sedentary (desk job) | 1,380 |
| Lightly Active (1-3 days/week) | 1,581 |
| Moderately Active (3-5 days/week) | 1,783 |
| Very Active (6-7 days/week) | 1,984 |
Suggested Macros
Based on moderate activity (1,783 cal/day):
80g
Protein
231g
Carbs
60g
Fat
How Long to Reach 47%
| Starting From | To Change | Est. Weeks | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22% body fat | 37.5 lbs | ~100 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 25% body fat | 33 lbs | ~88 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 30% body fat | 25.5 lbs | ~68 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lb |
| 35% body fat | 18 lbs | ~48 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 woman?
47% body fat falls in the ACE "Obese" category for women (32%+). 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 woman?
Severely obese. Very large hanging belly. Extremely wide hips and thighs. Massive fat deposits. Extremely round face.
More in Obese
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