ExRx.net : Skinfold Procedures

Measurements should be made on the right side of the body
Caliper should be placed 1-2 cm away from the thumb and finger
- perpendicular to the skin fold
- halfway between the crest and the base of the fold
Release the caliper lever so its spring tension is exerted on the skinfold
Maintained pinch while reading caliper
Read dial on caliper
- Between 1 to 2 seconds after lever has been released
- Nearest 0.5 mm
  - ACSM: nearest mm
Take duplicate measures at each site
- ExRx.net (traditional method)
  - If second measurement is not the same (mode) take third.
  - If no 2 measurements are the same, take middle one (median)
- ACSM
  - If within 1 or 2 mm take average
  - If not within 1 or 2 mm take 3rd measurement.
  - If still no match, then take average of 2 closest measurements.
- NSCA
  - 2 or 3 measurements
  - 4th measurement if more that 3 millimeter difference betwee readings
  - Average each site
Rotate through measurement sites
- allows time for skin and underlying fat to regain normal thickness

ACSM (2013) ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription.

NSCA (2012) NSCA's Guide to Tests and Assessment.

Skinfold Procedures