Skinfold Body Fat Calculator

Category: Fitness
- April 12, 2025
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Calculate your body fat percentage using the skinfold measurement method. This calculator supports different formulas for men and women based on various skinfold sites.

Personal Information

Formula Selection

Skinfold Measurements

mm
mm
mm

Display Options

About Skinfold Body Fat Testing

Skinfold testing estimates body fat percentage by measuring the thickness of skinfolds at specific sites on the body. This method is based on the principle that the amount of subcutaneous fat correlates with total body fat.

Measurement Sites
  • Chest: Diagonal fold halfway between the anterior axillary line and the nipple.
  • Abdomen: Vertical fold taken 2 cm to the right of the umbilicus.
  • Thigh: Vertical fold on the anterior midline of the thigh, midway between hip and knee joints.
  • Triceps: Vertical fold on the posterior midline of the upper arm, halfway between the acromion and olecranon processes.
  • Subscapular: Diagonal fold at a 45-degree angle, 1-2 cm below the inferior angle of the scapula.
  • Suprailiac: Diagonal fold above the iliac crest, along the anterior axillary line.
  • Midaxillary: Horizontal fold on the midaxillary line at the level of the xiphoid process.
  • Biceps: Vertical fold on the anterior aspect of the arm over the biceps muscle.
Formulas Used
  • Jackson/Pollock 3-Site: Uses different sites for men (chest, abdomen, thigh) and women (triceps, suprailiac, thigh).
  • Jackson/Pollock 4-Site: Includes biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac measurements.
  • Jackson/Pollock 7-Site: The most comprehensive formula using chest, midaxillary, triceps, subscapular, abdomen, suprailiac, and thigh measurements.
  • Durnin-Womersley: Uses biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac measurements with age-specific equations.
Measurement Tips
  • Take measurements on the right side of the body.
  • Pinch the skin and underlying fat away from the muscle.
  • Take each measurement 2-3 times and use the average.
  • Use quality calipers designed for body fat measurement.
  • Consistency in measurement technique is crucial for accuracy.
  • Wait at least 4 hours after exercise before taking measurements.

What Is the Skinfold Body Fat Calculator?

The Skinfold Body Fat Calculator is a practical tool used to estimate your body fat percentage based on the thickness of skinfolds at specific sites on your body. This method is widely used in fitness assessments and offers a reliable way to understand your body composition without the need for advanced equipment.

By measuring fat beneath the skin at various points and applying scientifically developed formulas, this calculator gives you a clear picture of your fat percentage and how it compares to healthy ranges.

How It Works

The calculator uses several well-known formulas including the Jackson/Pollock 3-Site, 4-Site, and 7-Site methods, as well as the Durnin-Womersley method. Each of these relies on different combinations of skinfold measurement locations and adjusts for age and gender.

The Siri equation is then applied to convert body density into an estimated body fat percentage:

Body Fat % = (495 / Body Density) - 450

How to Use the Calculator

Follow these steps to get your body fat percentage:

  • Select your gender and enter your age.
  • Choose the measurement formula that suits your preference or availability of skinfold sites.
  • Select your preferred unit of measurement (millimeters or inches).
  • Input your skinfold measurements as prompted based on the selected formula.
  • Use the display options to adjust decimal accuracy or view more details.
  • Click the "Calculate Body Fat %" button to view your results.

Understanding Your Results

The calculator provides several useful metrics:

  • Body Fat Percentage: The estimated percentage of fat mass in your body.
  • Sum of Skinfolds: The total thickness of all measured skinfolds.
  • Body Density: Used in the calculation of body fat % via the Siri equation.
  • Body Fat Category: Classification such as "Athletic", "Average", or "Obese" based on standardized guidelines for men and women.

Why This Calculator Can Be Helpful

This tool can be valuable in several ways:

  • It gives a quick and informative snapshot of your body composition.
  • Helps you track fitness progress beyond weight alone.
  • Supports goal setting for fat loss, muscle gain, or overall health improvement.
  • Empowers you to make better decisions about your nutrition and exercise habits.

While skinfold measurement isn’t the only way to track body fat, it remains a widely accessible and effective option for fitness enthusiasts, personal trainers, and those on a health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are skinfolds?

Skinfolds are areas where fat beneath the skin is pinched and measured using calipers. The thickness of these folds correlates with overall body fat.

Is this calculator accurate?

When used with proper measurement technique, the calculator offers a good estimate of body fat percentage. However, results can vary based on how consistently and correctly the measurements are taken.

Which formula should I choose?

The 3-site formulas are simpler and quicker. The 7-site is more detailed and may offer higher accuracy. Choose based on your comfort level and availability of measurement points.

Do I need special tools?

Yes, using skinfold calipers is recommended for consistent and precise measurements. These are available at fitness stores or online.

How often should I use it?

Every few weeks is ideal for tracking changes over time, especially if you're working on fitness goals.