Skinfold Body Fat Estimate
Estimate body fat percentage from skinfold caliper measurements.
The caliper method
Skinfold measurement estimates body fat by pinching and measuring the thickness of skin folds at specific sites with calipers, then applying a formula. This calculates a body fat estimate from those measurements, a long-established and accessible method used in fitness and sports settings.
Enter your skinfold measurements to estimate body fat.
Accuracy depends on technique
Skinfold estimation can be reasonably accurate, but it depends heavily on good technique — measuring at the correct sites, pinching consistently, and taking repeat readings — so results vary with the skill of whoever takes them, and are most reliable when the same person measures the same way each time. Different formulas use different site combinations and suit different populations, adding another source of variation. As with any method, the trend over time under consistent technique is more meaningful than a single reading of uncertain precision. This is general fitness information, not medical advice; body composition and healthy ranges are best discussed with a qualified professional, and the number is one part of overall health.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the skinfold method?
Reasonably accurate with good technique, but it depends on measuring the right sites consistently, so results vary with the skill of whoever takes them.
How can I get reliable results?
Have the same person measure the same way each time, and focus on the trend over time rather than a single reading of uncertain precision.
Is this medical advice?
No — it is general fitness information. Healthy body composition is best discussed with a qualified professional; the number is one part of overall health.