How to Measure Weight Loss Percentage

by Burst Health June 19, 2025

Tracking your health progress can be motivating, and for many people on a weight loss journey, one way to do this is to calculate your weight loss percentage. This simple metric gives you a relative sense of how much weight you've lost compared to where you started.

But it's important to remember that weight loss is only one piece of the bigger picture. True health extends beyond a lack of illness. It also encompasses how you feel, how you move, and how sustainable your habits are. This guide is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

Why Use Weight Loss Percentage as a Metric?

So, why calculate weight loss in percentage terms instead of just tracking kilograms lost?

Using a percentage allows for more meaningful comparisons. Losing 10kg looks very different for someone who starts at 60kg compared to someone who starts at 120kg. By expressing progress as a percentage, you can better understand your relative improvement.

That said, weight loss percentage doesn't capture everything. It doesn’t reflect changes in muscle mass, water retention, or body composition. And it doesn’t tell the full story of your health. Some people may gain weight while improving fitness or managing a medical condition, and that’s perfectly valid.

At Burst Health, we emphasise that healthy weight management is about balance, sustainability, and personal wellbeing, not perfection.

The Simple Formula for Weight Loss Percentage

Calculating your weight loss percentage is easy with this formula:

(Starting Weight – Current Weight) ÷ Starting Weight × 100

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Subtract your current weight from your starting weight.
Divide the result by your starting weight.
Multiply by 100 to convert it into a percentage.

Example:
If you started at 95kg and now weigh 85kg:

(95 – 85) ÷ 95 = 0.105
0.105 × 100 = 10.5%

That means you've lost 10.5% of your starting body weight.

If you’re wondering how to figure out the percentage of weight loss over time, you can use this method monthly or quarterly to check your progress. Just remember, fluctuations are normal and don’t always reflect fat loss.

Limitations of Weight Loss Percentage

While this metric is useful, it’s far from perfect. Here's what it doesn't show:

Body composition: It doesn't differentiate between fat loss and muscle loss.
Water weight: Your weight can shift daily based on hydration, hormones, or recent meals.
Health improvements: Some of the most meaningful benefits of a lifestyle change, such as better sleep, more energy, or improved mental health, aren’t captured by this number.

So, if you're asking how to calculate your weight loss percentage, remember to use it as one of many tools, as it’s not your only measure of success.

Other Ways to Measure Health and Progress

In addition to tracking your weight loss percentage, consider the following signs of positive change:

Energy levels throughout the day
Improvements in mood and mental health
Strength or endurance gains during workouts
How your clothes fit
Changes in cholesterol, blood pressure, or other medical markers (under professional guidance)

For some people, these indicators are more meaningful than weight alone. If you’re unsure where to start, speaking with a healthcare provider can help tailor the right approach for you.

When to Speak with a Healthcare Professional

If you're experiencing sudden weight changes, plateauing unexpectedly, or feeling discouraged despite your efforts, it's a good time to speak with a professional.

Whether you're trying to understand your health better or looking for safe and effective support with weight loss, Burst Health offers private consultations with Australian healthcare providers. Contact us to learn more or start your personalised health journey.

Take Charge of Your Weight Loss with Burst Health

Knowing how to calculate weight loss percentage can be a helpful tool, but it’s only one part of the overall picture. Long-term success comes from a sustainable, body-positive approach to health—one that works for your unique needs.

At Burst Health, we’re here to support your journey with evidence-based guidance and convenient online consultations. Explore our weight loss support or start your personalised health plan today.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Weight loss treatments are prescribed based on individual evaluations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment plan.