Caliper Body Fat Calculator
Estimate body fat using skinfold caliper measurements.
Skinfold Measurements (mm)
- Chest: Diagonal fold midway between nipple and armpit
- Abdomen: Vertical fold 1 inch from navel
- Thigh: Vertical fold on front of thigh, midway between hip and knee
Tips for Accurate Measurements
Take all measurements on the right side of the body. Pinch the skin firmly and place calipers 1cm below your fingers. Take 2-3 measurements at each site and use the average.
Limitations
Skinfold testing assumes a consistent distribution of subcutaneous fat. Results may be less accurate for very lean or obese individuals, or those with unusual fat distribution patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Skinfold testing measures the thickness of subcutaneous fat at specific body sites using calipers. These measurements are used in equations to estimate total body fat percentage.
When performed correctly, skinfold measurements can estimate body fat within 3-4% of more accurate methods like DEXA. Accuracy depends on the skill of the person taking measurements.
For men: chest, abdomen, and thigh. For women: triceps, suprailiac (above hip bone), and thigh. All measurements are taken on the right side of the body.
Body composition changes slowly. Measuring every 4-8 weeks is sufficient to track progress while minimizing measurement variability.