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Skin Fold Test Calculator

Jackson-Pollock 7-Site Formula:

\[ \text{Body Density} = 1.112 - (0.00043499 \times \text{sum}) + (0.00000055 \times \text{sum}^2) - (0.00028826 \times \text{age}) \] \[ \text{Body Fat \%} = (495 / \text{Body Density}) - 450 \]

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years

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1. What is the Jackson-Pollock 7-Site Skinfold Test?

The Jackson-Pollock 7-site skinfold test is a method for estimating body fat percentage by measuring skinfold thickness at seven specific locations on the body. It's widely used in fitness and health assessments due to its reliability and accuracy when performed correctly.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Jackson-Pollock 7-site formula:

\[ \text{Body Density} = 1.112 - (0.00043499 \times \text{sum}) + (0.00000055 \times \text{sum}^2) - (0.00028826 \times \text{age}) \] \[ \text{Body Fat \%} = (495 / \text{Body Density}) - 450 \]

Where:

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

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Accurate body fat assessment is crucial for health monitoring, fitness programming, and nutritional planning. It provides more meaningful information than weight alone and helps track changes in body composition.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the sum of seven skinfold measurements in millimeters and age in years. Ensure measurements are taken by a trained professional for accurate results. All values must be valid (sum > 0, age between 1-120).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which seven sites are measured?
A: Chest, mid-axillary, triceps, subscapular, abdomen, suprailiac, and thigh.

Q2: How accurate is this method?
A: When performed by a trained professional, it has about 3-5% margin of error compared to more advanced methods like DEXA.

Q3: Can women use this formula?
A: This specific formula is for males. Women should use the female-specific Jackson-Pollock 7-site formula.

Q4: How often should measurements be taken?
A: Every 4-8 weeks to track changes effectively, as body composition changes slowly.

Q5: What are healthy body fat ranges?
A: For men: 6-24% (athletes: 6-13%, fitness: 14-17%, average: 18-24%, obese: 25%+)

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