Anthropometry in body composition. An overview.

Anthropometry is a simple reliable method for quantifying body size and proportions by measuring body length, width, circumference (C), and skinfold thickness (SF). More than 19 sites for SF, 17 for C, 11 for width, and 9 for length have been included in equations to predict body fat percent with a standard error of estimate (SEE) range of +/- 3% to +/- 11% of the mean of the criterion measurement. Recent studies indicate that not only total body fat, but also regional fat and skeletal muscle, can be predicted from anthropometrics. Our Rosetta database supports the thesis that sex, age, ethnicity, and site influence anthropometric predictions; the prediction reliabilities are consistently higher for Whites than for other ethnic groups, and also by axial than by peripheral sites (biceps and calf). The reliability of anthropometrics depends on standardizing the caliper and site of measurement, and upon the measuring skill of the anthropometrist. A reproducibility of +/- 2% for C and +/- 10% for SF measurements usually is required to certify the anthropometrist.