Body fat percentage is a measure of how much fat you carry relative to your total body weight. Everyone has essential fat, which is necessary for basic bodily functions. This essential fat is higher in women due to reproductive needs.
When you mention a body fat percentage of 21%, it’s important to know that what might be considered “a lot” varies between men and women, and among individuals with different fitness goals.
For adult men, average body fat ranges from 18% to 24%. So, a body fat percentage of 21% for a man falls within the average range. However, for someone aiming for visible six-pack abs, reducing body fat further might be necessary, typically below 15%. This is because the abdominal muscles become more visible as the overlying layer of fat decreases.
For adult women, the story is a bit different. An average body fat percentage for adult women ranges from 25% to 31%. Thus, 21% body fat for a woman is relatively lean and is below the average range. Women naturally have a higher percentage of body fat than men due to physiological differences like hormones, breasts, and reproductive organs. A woman with 21% body fat would likely have a well-defined muscular tone, and her abdominal muscles might be visible depending on her genetics and muscle development.
Whether 21% body fat is considered “a lot” depends on gender and individual goals. For a man aiming for visible six-pack abs, he may need to aim for a slightly lower percentage. For a woman, 21% is already on the lean side, and she might already have some visible definition in her abs. Regardless of the number, it’s crucial to approach body composition goals in a healthy and sustainable manner, focusing on balanced nutrition and regular exercise.