What is considered an optimal body fat percentage for men?

The range of 5-15% body fat percentage is generally viewed as optimal for men, especially for those who are physically active and aiming for fitness goals. This percentage allows for a balance between having enough essential fat necessary for health and the ability to maintain muscle mass.

At lower levels of body fat, such as in the 5-10% category, men often display well-defined muscle and lower risks of obesity-related diseases, but extremely low levels can lead to hormonal imbalances and other health issues over time. The upper limit of this range reflects a healthy level of body fat that still supports good metabolic health, physical performance, and energy levels without excessive fat accumulation.

In contrast, the other choices either present higher than optimal body fat percentages or are generally considered unhealthy for most men. Higher percentages, such as in the 15-25% range, may be associated with increased risks of health issues like cardiovascular disease, while the extremely low percentage of 1-5% is often unsustainable and can lead to serious health complications. Thus, the 5-15% range remains the most supportive of overall health and fitness for men.