Body Fat Calculator Caliper 3 Site

Jackson & Pollock 3-Site Equation (Men):

\[ BD = 1.10938 - (0.0008267 \times Sum3) + (0.0000016 \times Sum3^2) - (0.0002574 \times Age) \] \[ BF\% = \left(\frac{495}{BD}\right) - 450 \]

Body Density (BD):

Body Fat Percentage (BF%):

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1. What is the 3-Site Caliper Body Fat Test?

The 3-site skinfold measurement (chest, abdomen, and thigh) is a method to estimate body fat percentage using calipers. This method is based on the Jackson & Pollock equation and provides a practical way to assess body composition without expensive equipment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Jackson & Pollock 3-site equation for men:

\[ BD = 1.10938 - (0.0008267 \times Sum3) + (0.0000016 \times Sum3^2) - (0.0002574 \times Age) \] \[ BF\% = \left(\frac{495}{BD}\right) - 450 \]

Where:

\( BD \) — Body Density (g/cm³)
\( Sum3 \) — Sum of chest, abdomen, and thigh skinfolds (mm)
\( Age \) — Age in years
\( BF\% \) — Body Fat Percentage

Explanation: The equation estimates body density from skinfold measurements and age, then converts this to body fat percentage using the Siri equation.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Body fat percentage provides a more accurate assessment of health and fitness than body weight alone. It helps track progress in fat loss programs and assess health risks associated with obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

Measure skinfolds with proper calipers
Take measurements on the right side of the body
Ensure consistent measurement sites
Average multiple measurements for accuracy
Input values must be valid (sum3 > 0, age 18-100)

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the measurement sites?
A: Chest (diagonal fold midway between axilla and nipple), Abdomen (vertical fold 2 cm right of umbilicus), Thigh (vertical fold midway between patella and inguinal crease).

Q2: How accurate is this method?
A: With proper technique, it's about ±3-5% of hydrostatic weighing. Accuracy depends on technician skill and caliper quality.

Q3: What are healthy body fat percentages?
A: For men: 6-24% (athletes 6-13%, fitness 14-17%, average 18-24%, obese 25%+). Women typically have 5-8% higher values.

Q4: Can this be used for women?
A: No, this calculator uses the male equation. Women require a different 3-site formula (triceps, suprailiac, thigh).

Q5: How often should measurements be taken?
A: Every 4-8 weeks to track changes. More frequent measurements may show natural fluctuations rather than true changes.