Skinfold calipers measure non-lean tissue in the body and can estimate body fat percentage. They are used to track changes in body composition over time, but multiple measurements in various locations are necessary for accuracy. The chest, abdomen, thighs, area under the shoulder blades, and back of the arms are traditional measurement locations.
A skinfold caliper is a clamped device used to measure the amount of non-lean tissue in the body. By extension, it can be used to generate a rough estimate of body fat percentage. This device literally measures loose skin and tissue by gently pinching parts of the body and measuring how far apart the two forceps are.
Skinfold measurements are one of several ways body fat can be estimated, as part of a weight management regimen, although it is one of the least accurate compared to other options. Body fat percentage is a valuable weight loss statistic as it distinguishes unwanted weight, such as fat, from necessary weight, such as muscle. Unlike body weight, which can be easily calculated with scales, body fat percentage is a more subtle measure, derived from a mathematical formula, for which skinfold measurements can provide a component.
Rather than deliver value through single measurements, a skinfold caliper is typically used to track changes in body composition over time. Thus, it is common practice to use skinfold measurements as raw comparative data, in the absence of any conversion to percentage body fat. It can be inferred that decreasing caliper readings reflect decreasing levels of body fat.
Fitness professionals recommend daily measurements for weeks or months, taken at the same time each day. Several factors can frustrate the accuracy of skinfold caliper measurements, so taking multiple sets of measurements at various locations on the body is crucial to obtaining a reliable average. Gauges must also be properly calibrated and maintained for readings to be valid.
Traditional locations on the body that lend themselves to skinfold caliper measurement include the chest, abdomen, thighs, area under the shoulder blades, and the back of the arms. To take an adequate measurement, a skin fold must be lifted away from any underlying muscle and calipers applied to the fold. Readings should always be taken on the same side of the body, usually the right side. Most calipers, regardless of country of manufacture, give readings in millimeters.
A comprehensive monitoring strategy requires at least three measurements in several of these areas each day, and tracking the average. More measurements in more areas reduces the probability of errors and improves the reliability of the statistics. Once the measurements are taken and averaged, they can be recorded directly or inserted into the body fat equation to determine a percentage.
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