Lecture 6 Flashcards
What are the different field methods to assessing body composition
. Height and weight • Body Mass Index (BMI) • Skinfolds • Waist circumference • Waist-to-hip ratio
What equipment is needed for the height field method
• Height measured by Stadiometer
Describe the process for the height field method
• Remove shoes • Subject stands straight • Take a deep breath in and holds while looking straight ahead • You can assist subject into assuming Frankfort plane
What equipment is needed for the weight field method
Weight measured by calibrated scale
Describe the process for the weight method
- Remove shoes
- Also remove as much clothing as possible
- No wet hair
What is the BMI formula
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)2
Why is BMI used to determine overweight/obesity
Based on the concept that individuals with lower BF% will have a low BMI
What is the BMI range(adullts) for normal weight
Normal weight = BMI 18.5 - 24.9
What is the BMI range(adults) for overweight
Overweight = BMI 25 - 29.9
What is the BMI range (adults) for obesity
Obesity = BMI ≥30
What is the BMI range (adults) for severe obesity
Severe Obesity = BMI ≥35
What are the problems with the usage of BMI
- Does not measure the amount of fat
- Can over-report obesity compared to BF%
• Heavy athletes end up with a high BMI, even if they
have a low BF%
• Elderly: low BMIs due to ↓ muscle mass
despite a high BF%
• BMI increases as you age because height
decreases
Describe the skinfold assessment
Measures 2 layers of subcutaneous fat (beneath the
skin)
• Provides an estimate of a person’s overall body
fatness
Describe the process of the skinfold assessment technique
- Skinfold measurements are always taken on the right side of
the body - Carefully identify, measure and mark the skinfold site
- Grasp the skinfold between the thumb and index finger of
your left hand at the measurement site - Lift the fold gently, and place the calipers 1 cm below the
measurement site - Take skinfold measurement 2 seconds after releasing the
calipers - Open the calipers and release the skinfold
Where are the sites for skinfold assessment
. Chest
. Abdominal
. Thigh
. Triceps/Biceps
Describe the location for chest skinfold assessment
• Diagonal fold • Men: midway between anterior axilla and nipple • Women: 1/3 distance between anterior axilla and nipple
Describe the location for abdominal skinfold assessment
• Vertical fold
• 5 cm to the right of the
umbilicus (belly button)
Describe the location for thigh skinfold assessment
• Vertical fold • Anterior midline of the thigh • Midway between proximal patella (kneecap) and inguinal (hip) crease
Describe the location for triceps/biceps skinfold assessment
• Vertical fold • Posterior/anterior midline of upper arm • Midpoint between acromion (shoulder) and head of the radius (elbow)
Describe the location for subscapular skinfold assessment
• Diagonal fold
• 2 cm below the inferior
angle of the scapula (bottom
of shoulder blade)
Describe the location for medial calf skinfold assessment
• Vertical fold
• Most medial aspect at the point
of greatest girth