The FFI estimates body fat and muscle mass by sending electrical currents to the body and measuring the response. Unlike traditional scales that only measure body weight, body fat scales combine weight scales with something called a foot-to-foot impedance meter (FFI) ( 12). Nevertheless, the CM method is one of the best ways to measure body fat at home because it’s inexpensive and can be done by most anyone.īody fat scales or smart scales are popular amongst those who want an easy way to monitor their body composition regularly at home. This means that the accuracy of the CM method varies depending on body fat distribution. However, the researchers found that the CM method was less accurate when measuring females with larger waists. It’s important to measure correctly, leaving enough tension to provide an accurate measurement while being careful not to indent the skin.Īlso, this method requires some knowledge of anatomy for example, knowing the location of the voicebox.Ī 2019 study that included 76 active military service members found no significant differences when comparing the accuracy of the CM method to DEXA - considered one of the most reliable measures of body fat ( 10).
Neck: measured right below the voicebox and rounded up.Using a non-stretch tape measure, take circumference measurements three times at each anatomical site and record to the nearest half-inch. Even the Department of Defense uses this metric to determine the body fat percentage of service members ( 10). These measurements are then entered into an equation to determine body fat percentage.ĬM is considered a reliable method to measure body fat. This method uses a tape measure to take measurements of specific sites on the body. Also, accuracy can vary significantly based on body fat levels, how you’re using the calipers, and other factors ( 7, 8, 9).Ĭircumference measurement (CM) is another way to measure body fat at home. Studies show that skinfold calipers can be an accurate way to measure body fat, but they do require some skill and knowledge of anatomy. Most come with a measuring tape and a body fat chart.
#Bodyfat calculator manual
Skinfold calipers come in manual and digital versions and can range in price, depending on the type you choose.
The sum determines percent body fat.Īlthough there are equations that can be used to determine percent body fat, researchers suggest that using the sum of skinfold sites in millimeters is more accurate than plugging numbers into an equation ( 7). Keep in mind that you will need assistance when taking skinfold measurements.Īfter measurements are taken, the skinfold measurements are added. Here’s a how-to video demonstrating 7-site and 3-site skinfold measurement methods. The 7-site measurements are all taken on the same side of the body and include: However, 8-site and 3-site measurements can also be used ( 4, 5, 6).
#Bodyfat calculator skin
It’s typically recommended to use a 7-site measurement method when using skin calipers, which involves taking skinfold measurements from 7 areas of the body. These handheld tools pinch and measure the thickness of subcutaneous (under the skin) fat in multiple areas of the body, including the abdomen, triceps, and thigh. They’re relatively easy to use and especially helpful for measuring body fat levels when other methods that require expensive equipment or specialized training are unavailable.
Skinfold calipers offer an inexpensive way to measure body fat.
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