
We're using the 7 site measurement method in the example below ( 2) ( 3). There is an equation for men and women and two variations to the method which involve either taking 7 measurement readings or 3. The Jackson-Pollock formula is a commonly used and validated method that uses skinfold measurements to predict body fat. Measuring Body Fat using Jackson Pollock Formula

What we're actually doing is showing your formula behind the scenes to give you insight into the factors at play. Instead you can just monitor the changes in skinfold measurements at various body sites.Īlso note that there are many calculators online that will take your measurements and give you your end body fat estimate automatically. It's also worth noting that you don't have to convert your skinfold measurements to a body fat estimate at all. We've chosen two of the most popular formulas used which should work for most of our readers. Obviously it's best to use a formula that more closely matches your own profile. Each equation relates to different populations, ages and characteristic types which skew the statistical model output. There are actually over 100 different formulas out there.

Now that you know what calipers are, how they're used, and of the different measurement sites we're going to introduce you to some formulas to produce your actual BF estimate. Take a vertical fold on the back of the upper arm, halfway between the elbow and top of shoulder. Bodyweight should be shifted to the left foot. Take a vertical skinfold in the midline of the right thigh. Take a slightly slanted skinfold just above the iliac crest (side of body above the pelvis) Take a diagonal skinfold measured 1-2 cm below the inferior angle of the scapula (towards middle of back on right hand side). Take a vertical skinfold in the middle of the calf muscle at the point of largest girthįor men only, take a diagonal skinfold (45 degree angle) half way between the nipple and outer chest (anterior axillary line)Ĭan use vertical or horizontal skinfold (although must ensure consistency) on the midaxillary line (down the side of the torso) at the level of the xiphoid process (base of the centre column in rib cage). Take a vertical skinfold over the belly of the muscle Take a vertical skinfold 2cm to the right of the umbilicus The different skinfold measurements sites used by the various methods are listed below Skinfold location Record measurements when 2 consecutive values are within 1-2 mm and take the average.Take two readings and if they're not within 1-2mm of each other then retake.The measurement point of the skinfold should be half way along length of fold.Hold calipers perpendicular to the skinfold.
BODY FAT CALCULATOR CALIPER SKIN
Grab a fold of skin and use the caliper to measure thickness to the nearest 0.5mm by reading the measurement dial.Take measurements on the right side of the body.We have compiled these guidelines to help take more accurate caliper measurements
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Technique is important when using calipers to take skinfold measurements.
