Lean Body Mass Guide

What is Lean Body Mass?

Lean Body Mass (LBM) is everything in your body except fat: muscles, bones, organs, water, and other tissues. It's calculated as: Total Weight - Fat Mass.

Why LBM Matters

  • Protein needs: Calculate protein based on LBM for better accuracy
  • Metabolism: LBM is the main driver of your metabolic rate
  • Fitness goals: Track muscle gain vs fat loss
  • Health indicator: Higher LBM generally means better health

Protein Based on LBM

  • Sedentary: 1.2-1.4g per kg of LBM
  • Active: 1.6-1.8g per kg of LBM
  • Athletes: 2.0-2.4g per kg of LBM

Note

You need your body fat percentage to calculate LBM. Use our body fat calculator if you don't know yours.