What are some sources of error when taking skinfold measures?
Some potential sources of measurement error when using the skinfold method can mainly be traced back to human error. For example, incorrect pinching technique by to person performing the assessment could result in a larger than actual measurement, if muscle is pinched with the fat.
What is the average error expected in skinfold measurements?
The average absolute error ranged from 0.6 mm to 1.1 mm for the 7-sites, 4.8±7.5 mm for the sum of 7- sites, and 0.8±1.2% for BF%.
Why are skinfold measurements inaccurate?
Calipers only directly measure the width of skinfolds; they rely on equations to take this data and turn it into meaningful body fat percentage results. In order to do this, certain assumptions about body fat have to be made, such as how much body fat is due to subcutaneous fat and how much is due to visceral fat.
What are the disadvantages of the skinfold test?
A critical disadvantage in the use of skinfolds is that it is limited to the assessment of subcutaneous fat only, and cannot accurately distinguish between abdominal visceral adipose tissue and saturated adipose tissue.
What affects the reliability of the skinfold test?
Estimates are largely influenced by hydration status, because the scales measure the resistance to the electrical current (better hydrated = less resistant). If measures are taken repeatedly over time, then changes in estimates may be due to a change in hydration status as opposed to a change in body composition.
What factors can affect skinfold thickness measurements?
Subcutaneous fat, and therefore skinfold thicknesses at the different sites, changes at varying rates with age, weight change, with diseases such as diabetes, and in women during pregnancy, postpartum, and at the menopause.
How accurate is the skin fold test?
Skinfold Results Information The accuracy of skinfold measurements are within ± 3.5-5%.
Is skinfold testing reliable?
The calculations and calipers themselves are very accurate. While there is large room for user error in skin fold measurements, skilled trainers who practice often can obtain up to 98% accuracy.
What are the pros and cons of skinfold measurements?
Summary
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Quick to execute | High inter-tester variability (i.e. reliability can be poor when the tester does not remain the same) |
| Minimal equipment and subject participation required | Most skinfold calipers have an upper limit of 45–60 mm, limiting their use to moderately overweight subjects |
Are skinfold measurements accurate?
How can you improve the accuracy of taking skinfold measurements?
Ensure you are careful in locating the anatomical landmarks used to identify the skinfold site. Take all skinfolds on the right side of the body (for reliability) Ensure that you take the skinfold in a rotational order (circuit) and do not complete consecutive readings at each skinfold site.
Is the skinfold test accurate?
The accuracy of skinfold measurements are within ± 3.5-5%.