Thread: Accu-Measure caliper question

Hi all,

I'm wondering if anyone here uses the Accu-Measure calipers to monitor bodyfat and if you could help me understand the "pinching" technique.

The information that comes with the calipers says to locate the top of the hip bone and pinch the skinfold 1 inch above that location. My question is do you grab as much fat as you can from that location and use that as your skinfold? Or are you only supposed to grab an inch?

Thanks

If you only grab an inch, then that is all the fat it will measure. I grab a fold of fat and pull it out abut an inch. I equate it to folding over your fat layer in two. I pinch with my thumb and index finger to create the fold, and pull out. I went so far to mark my measuring spot with a perm. marker to make sure I am measuring in the same location each time. I am not sure it is as important where you take the measurements (presuming it is in the general area above the hip), as long as they are in the same location. Some will argue that the results given in percentages are not accurate and only a bouancy test will accurately measure your body fat. Personally I do not care. I use it more of a gauge to see if I am loosing, maintaing, or gaining fat. So as long as I measure in the same spot each time, and am consistant in taking the measurements, then the results will be relative to each other and give me readings (up, same or down) from the last measurement. From this I know if I am loosing, maintaining or gaining body fat. Again, I feel consistance in taking the measurements is the key.