Body Fat Test

Measuring body fat percentage is an easy method of discovering correct body weight and composition. This is a simple test to predict body fat percentage using only height and weight.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete’s level of body fat.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• Weighing Scales
• Tape Measure
• Assistant

How to conduct the test

• The assistant weighs and records the athlete's weight and measures and records the athletes height

The fat-free body mass (FFBM) represents the body mass devoid of all fat whereas lean body mass (LBM) contains a small percentage of essential fat. For men Behnke considered it to be FFBM+3% essential fat and for females FFBM+12% fat (3% essential fat + 9% sex specific essential fat).

The density of fat and fat free tissue remains relatively constant: fat = 0.9 grm/cm³ and fat free tissue = 1.1 grm/cm³.

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training and diet between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's percentage body fat.

Target Group

This test is suitable for everyone but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in measuring what it is intended to measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is conducted. The following link provides a variety of factors that may influence the results and therefore the test reliability.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test actually measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on the basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development.

The test is not a good predictor of percentage body fat, however it can be used to indicate changes in body composition over time.

Advantages

• Minimal equipment required
• Simple to set up and conduct
• Can be conducted almost anywhere

Disadvantages

• Specialist equipment required
• Assistant required to administer the test

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (2010) Body Fat Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/sfatcent.htm [Accessed

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:

• Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Body Fat Percentage Test
• Body Fat Percentage using Girth Measurements
• Evaluation and Performance Tests
• Facts about Fat
• Fat Burning Zone
• Fat - Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis
• Ideal Body Weight
• Yuhasz skinfold test