How to Calculate Body Fat Percentage from Skinfold
Purchase a skinfold caliper., Determine the test sites., Pinch a skinfold with the thumb and index finger. , Place the measuring tips of the calipers at a right angle .39 to .79 inches (1 to 2 cm) below your fingers., Note and record the reading...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Purchase a skinfold caliper.
You can choose an inexpensive home set or the pricier research-grade calipers.
Skinfold calipers can be found online, at health supply stores, and at pharmacies. -
Step 2: Determine the test sites.
Most tests are done on the right side of the body.
However, scars, injuries, or amputation may necessitate testing on the left side.
The 7 main skin fold test sites include triceps, biceps, subscapular, supraspinale, abdominal, thigh, and calf.
An optional testing site may include the iliac crest.
Select several sites to test and monitor over time. ,, Wait 2 seconds. ,,,,,,,, In general, a normal male receives an excellent rating with a score of 80 or lower and a poor rating with a score of 150 or higher.
A normal female receives an excellent rating with a score of 90 or lower and a poor rating with a score of 150 or higher.
The scores of good, average, and below average fall in between these 2 ratings.
Some scales may convert skinfold caliper readings to a percentage of body fat.
This is not recommended due to the high possibility of errors. -
Step 3: Pinch a skinfold with the thumb and index finger.
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Step 4: Place the measuring tips of the calipers at a right angle .39 to .79 inches (1 to 2 cm) below your fingers.
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Step 5: Note and record the reading.
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Step 6: Release the calipers.
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Step 7: Wait 1 to 2 seconds
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Step 8: and repeat the testing procedure 2 more times.
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Step 9: Add the 3 measurements
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Step 10: and obtain the average by dividing the sum by 3.
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Step 11: Make note of the average reading.
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Step 12: Move to the remaining test sites
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Step 13: and take 3 more readings at each spot.
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Step 14: Record the average of the readings for each test site.
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Step 15: Use an approved skinfold test scale to interpret the results of the test.
Detailed Guide
You can choose an inexpensive home set or the pricier research-grade calipers.
Skinfold calipers can be found online, at health supply stores, and at pharmacies.
Most tests are done on the right side of the body.
However, scars, injuries, or amputation may necessitate testing on the left side.
The 7 main skin fold test sites include triceps, biceps, subscapular, supraspinale, abdominal, thigh, and calf.
An optional testing site may include the iliac crest.
Select several sites to test and monitor over time. ,, Wait 2 seconds. ,,,,,,,, In general, a normal male receives an excellent rating with a score of 80 or lower and a poor rating with a score of 150 or higher.
A normal female receives an excellent rating with a score of 90 or lower and a poor rating with a score of 150 or higher.
The scores of good, average, and below average fall in between these 2 ratings.
Some scales may convert skinfold caliper readings to a percentage of body fat.
This is not recommended due to the high possibility of errors.
About the Author
Timothy Davis
Professional writer focused on creating easy-to-follow practical skills tutorials.
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