Validation of a New Skinfold Prediction Equation Based on Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry

Abstract

Skinfold prediction equations recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine underestimate body fat percentage. The purpose of this research was to validate an alternative equation for men created from dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Two hundred ninety-seven males, aged 18–65, completed a skinfold assessment and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scan to determine percent of body fat. Three American College of Sports Medicine equations (JP7, JP3a, and JP3b) and the new dual energy x-ray absorptiometry criterion equation were used to predict percent of body fat. Mean age was 32.4 ± 14.0 years and mean BMI was 25.6 ± 3.3 kg/m². The mean dual energy x-ray absorptiometry percent of body fat was 18.0 ± 5.9. The mean percent of body fat for Dual Energy X-Ray Aborptiometry (DC), JP7, JP3a, and JP3b were 19.1 ± 6.3, 16.1 ± 7.4, 14.8 ± 6.8, 15.6 ± 6.7, respectively. The standard error of the estimate of DC was low (2.72%) and was highly correlated (R² = 0.87) with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. The DC equation more accurately predicted percent of body fat across a general population of men than the recommended American College of Sports Medicine equations.

Key words:

• body composition
• percent body fat
• dual energy x-ray absorptiometry