How are skinfold measurements taken?

A trained assessor grasps a double fold of skin and subcutaneous fat (not muscle) with the thumb and forefinger, applies caliper jaws 1 cm away, and reads the measurement after 2 seconds. Three readings are averaged.

How accurate are 3-site skinfold tests?

With a trained assessor, 3-site skinfold tests have a standard error of approximately 3.5% body fat compared to DEXA. Consistent testing by the same assessor reduces measurement variability significantly.

Is skinfold testing more accurate for lean or overweight individuals?

Skinfold equations are most accurate for lean to moderately overweight individuals. For very overweight persons (>30% body fat), grasping and measuring folds becomes difficult and errors increase.

Body Fat 3-Site Skinfold Test

Calculate body fat percentage from 3-site skinfold measurements using the Jackson-Pollock equations (chest, abdomen, thigh for men; tricep, suprailiac, thigh for women).

Use the full interactive calculator below, or

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Frequently Asked Questions

How are skinfold measurements taken?

How accurate are 3-site skinfold tests?

Is skinfold testing more accurate for lean or overweight individuals?