Skinfold (Calipers) Body Fat Calculator Jackson & Pollock 7-site method
Body Fat Categories
| Category | Men (%) | Women (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | 2–5% | 10–13% |
| Athletic | 6–13% | 14–20% |
| Fitness | 14–17% | 21–24% |
| Average | 18–24% | 25–31% |
| High | 25%+ | 32%+ |
How This Calculator Works
This calculator estimates your body fat percentage using the Jackson & Pollock 7-Site Method, a widely used skinfold technique that measures fat at multiple body locations.
Step 1: Take Skinfold Measurements
- Chest Diagonal fold halfway between nipple and armpit.
- Midaxillary Vertical fold on side of torso, directly below armpit at chest level.
- Triceps Vertical fold on back of upper arm, midway between shoulder and elbow.
- Subscapular Diagonal fold just below the shoulder blade.
- Abdomen Vertical fold about 2 cm to the side of the belly button.
- Suprailiac Diagonal fold just above the hip bone, along natural angle.
- Thigh Vertical fold on front of thigh, halfway between hip and knee.
Measurements are taken in millimeters (mm). Each site should be measured 2–3 times and averaged for better accuracy.
Step 2: Calculate Body Density
Men: Density = 1.112 − (0.00043499 × Σ7) + (0.00000055 × Σ7²) − (0.00028826 × age)
Women: Density = 1.097 − (0.00046971 × Σ7) + (0.00000056 × Σ7²) − (0.00012828 × age)
(Σ7 = sum of the seven skinfold measurements)
Step 3: Convert to Body Fat %
Body Fat % = (495 ÷ Density) − 450
Disclaimer:
Results depend heavily on proper measurement technique. Inconsistent placement or pinching can significantly affect accuracy.