Skinfold Thickness

Overview

The measurement of subcutaneous fat located directly beneath the skin by grasping a fold of skin and subcutaneous fat between the thumb and forefinger and pulling it away from the underlying muscle tissue. The thickness of the double layer of skin and subcutaneous tissue is then read with a caliper. The five most frequently measured sites are the upper arm, below the scapula, above the hip bone, the abdomen, and the thigh. Its application is the determination of relative fatness, of changes in physical conditioning programs, and of the percentage of body fat in desirable body weight. (From McArdle, et al., Exercise Physiology, 2d ed, p496-8)

This information is general and should not be treated as medical advice. Always speak directly with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about treatment, diagnosis, procedures, medicines or care.

Quick facts about Skinfold Thickness

Topic type

Diagnostic Test

Category

Diagnostics

MeSH classification

E01.370.600.115.100.803|E05.041.124.803|G07.100.100.803

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