18th Annual Student Research Conference
Human Potential and Performance
Variations in Skinfold Measurements Among Three Novice Investigators
Laura A. Tomlinson*, Dawn M. Juon, and Dyane E. Tower
Dr. Jerry Mayhew, Faculty Mentor
The purpose of this study was to analyze the differences among 3 novice testers in skinfold measurements and calculating percent body fat by using the Jackson-Pollock equation. Each investigator obtained 3 measurements from 27 female college students (ages 20 to 22) from 3 sites (triceps, suprailiac, and thigh) using Lange Skinfold Calipers. The average measurement from each site and percent fat was used to determine inter-tester objectivity using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). A repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine statistical significance between testers (p≤0.05). A significant difference existed between the 3 novice investigators at the suprailiac site, the skinfold sum, and percent fat. No significant difference existed at the triceps and thigh sites. Significant differences existed between investigators with no consistent pattern present. The differences noted in this study could be problematic when determining ideal body weight or weight loss prescriptions for female clients between 20 and 22.
Keywords: Skinfolds, objectivity, percent fat
Topic(s):Exercise Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 29-25
Location: OP Lobby & Atrium
Time: 1:15