Body Fat Calipers

Body fat calipers are a practical and accurate tool for tracking body fat percentage, helping you monitor changes and set health and fitness goals. They are used on specific body sites to measure the thickness of skinfolds, which represents the subcutaneous fat layer.

Body Fat Caliper Usage Guide

 Follow these steps for correct usage and reliable measurements.

1. Prepare for Measurement

• Find a Measuring Partner: For best results, have someone assist you.
• Choose the Right Time: Take measurements at the same time of day, preferably in the morning before any exercise, to maintain consistency.
• Stay Consistent: Always measure in the same spots for accurate tracking over time.

2. Skinfold sites

Different methods use different skinfold sites. Commonly used protocols include:

• 3-Site Method: Measures three locations. Often used for beginners and is less time-consuming.
• 7-Site Method: Measures seven locations for a more comprehensive analysis, typically used by athletes or fitness enthusiasts.

The most common sites are:

• Chest (men): Diagonal pinch halfway between the armpit and nipple.
  
• Abdomen: Vertical pinch about 1-2 cm to the right of the navel.
  
• Thigh: Vertical pinch halfway between the hip and the knee on the front of the thigh.
  
• Tricep: Vertical pinch halfway between the shoulder and the elbow.
  
• Suprailiac: Diagonal pinch just above the hip bone.
  
• Mid-Axillary: Vertical pinch on the side of the torso, level with the nipple line.
  
• Subscapular: Diagonal pinch 1-2 cm below the shoulder blade.
  

3. Measuring Steps

• Pinch the skinfold firmly with your fingers at the desired site.
  
  
• Place the caliper's jaws perpendicular to the skinfold, approximately 1 cm away from your fingers.
  
• Squeeze the caliper handle until you hear a click. Note the reading on the scale in millimeters.
  
• Repeat the measurement twice at each site, and use the average for accuracy.

4. Interpreting Results

Here is a calculator that can be used with the skinfold results: https://goodcalculators.com/skinfold-calculator/

Here is an alternative calculator: https://www.free-online-calculator-use.com/skin-fold-test.htmlbo

Or, refer to a body fat chart or consult a professional for guidance on healthy body fat ranges based on age and gender. 

5. Tracking Progress

Log your measurements and track changes over time. While individual measurements vary, consistent decreases or increases can indicate changes in body fat.

Tips for Accuracy

• Practice Makes Perfect: Technique improves with practice. Take multiple measurements until comfortable.
• Stay Relaxed: Avoid flexing muscles during measurements.
• Seek Assistance if Needed: A fitness professional or coach can help ensure accurate technique.

With regular use, Body Fat Calipers can provide valuable insights into your body composition and support your health and fitness journey.

Our calipers are also available as a free gift at the checkout if you spend over $200.