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Skinfold Thickness

One method used to determine body fat percentage is skinfold thickness. Skinfold calipers are the tools used to measure the thickness of a fold of skin with its underlying layer of fat. The total amount of fat on the body can be estimated if skinfold measurements are taken at certain locations. It is useful to mark the locations on the body with a cosmetic pencil (mark can be easily removed) prior to measuring the skinfolds.

In the US, skinfold thickness measurements are usually taken on the right side of the body while internationally they are taken on the left. Measurement protocols should specify which side of the body to conduct the skinfold thickness measurements on.

Equipment Setup

For skinfold calipers, setup is easy. Ensure the skinfold calipers are out of the box and that you have a cosmetic pencil available for marking the skin.

Equipment Calibration

For skinfold calipers, zero the calipers, ensuring that the pointer falls exactly on 0mm. If the pointer is off, depending on the type of caliper you are using you may be able to adjust the pointer through adjusting the screw. If the calipers do not zero and are not adjustable do not use them. Place a step wedge, that has a series of wedges that fall at different increments, in between the caliper and see if the caliper reading falls within the acceptable ranges for each associated step in the wedge. If the caliper does not calibrate to the step wedge do not use it. Always be sure to record the calibration value prior to conducting any measurements following calibration protocols. Calibration should occur at the start of each measurement session.

Equipment Care

The calipers should be wiped down with sanitizer after every child’s measurement to prevent the spread of germs. Cleaning the equipment at the end of the session is also important to extend the life of the equipment. Due to their small size it is easy to lose or forget a caliper so make sure to follow a protocol for collecting, transporting, and storing.

Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA)

Bioelectrical impedance or BIA has been integrated into scales, handheld devices and whole body devices (view the embedded video on whole body devices below).

BIA sends a mild electrical current through the body to determine body composition including fat composition based on the impedance (resistance) of the electrical current. The BIA machine is a less invasive and simpler method to determine body fat percentage in comparison to skinfold thickness.

Equipment Setup
Setup the BIA following manufacturing guidelines. These will vary depending on the type of BIA equipment used.

Equipment Calibration
Calibrate the BIA following manufacturing guidelines. These will vary depending on the type of BIA equipment used.

Equipment Care
Sanitize the BIA after every child’s measurement to prevent the spread of germs. Cleaning the equipment at the end of the session is also important to extend the life of the equipment. It is recommended to store in a temperature controlled environment to maintain the integrity of the equipment.