If you’re a model or thinking about modeling, the first question that pops up is often about body fat. How low should it be? What’s safe? The short answer: the number isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Agencies look at overall shape, health, and how you carry weight, not just a single percentage.
Most runway agencies prefer a lean look, but they also care about long‑term health. A body fat range of 15‑20% for women and 10‑15% for men usually meets the visual standards while keeping you safe. Anything lower can lead to fatigue, hormone issues, and a higher injury risk during long shoots.
Runway models often have waist measurements around 22‑24 inches (56‑61 cm). That translates to a low body fat level, but remember the waist is just one piece of the puzzle. Your bone structure, muscle mass, and height all affect how you look at a given body fat percentage.
In the UK and EU, some agencies now require a medical certificate confirming you’re not under‑nourished. This move pushes the industry toward healthier bodies. For example, a skinny model waist guide shows that many top agencies set a minimum BMI of 18.5, which usually aligns with a body fat of about 15% for women.
When you compare this with the "clean face" modeling rules (no makeup, fresh skin), you see a pattern: simplicity and health go hand‑in‑hand. The same principle applies to body fat – keep it realistic, not extreme.
First, focus on nutrition, not diet fads. A balanced plate with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs helps you stay in the sweet spot. If you’re aiming for a 17% body fat, a slight calorie deficit combined with strength training works better than crash diets.
Second, move smart. Mixing cardio with weight‑training preserves muscle while you shed fat. A 30‑minute brisk walk three times a week plus two short resistance sessions can shave off a few pounds without draining energy.
Third, track progress with more than a scale. Use a tape measure for waist, hips, and thighs, and take progress photos every two weeks. Sometimes you’ll see shape changes even if the scale stalls.
Lastly, prioritize sleep and stress management. Poor sleep spikes cortisol, which can increase belly fat. Aim for 7‑8 hours nightly and include relaxing activities like a short sauna session – just don’t overstay it, 15‑20 minutes is enough.
Putting all this together, you’ll hit a body fat range that looks great on the runway and feels good off it. Remember, the goal isn’t a number; it’s a sustainable, healthy body that lets you model confidently for years.
Curious what body fat percentage Victoria’s Secret models have? Get the real ranges, measurement pitfalls, look-by-percent visuals, and safe ways to aim for that lean look.
