Estimation of Arm Fat Percentage: from Segmental Bioimpedance to Anthropometry

Diego Nicolás Messina
Cátedra de Evaluación Nutricional; Facultad de Ciencias de la Nutrición. Universidad Juan Agustín Maza. Acceso Este Lateral Sur 2245, Guaymallén (5519), Mendoza, Argentina

Published 30-04-2024

Keywords

  • Anthropometry,
  • Bioimpedance,
  • Body Composition,
  • Fat Mass,
  • Segmental Bioimpedance

How to Cite

Nicolás Messina, D. (2024). Estimation of Arm Fat Percentage: from Segmental Bioimpedance to Anthropometry. International Journal of Kinanthropometry, 4(1), 24–31. https://doi.org/10.34256/ijk2414

Dimensions

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, there are no formulas to estimate the percentage of fat by segments of the body from anthropometric measurements. The objective of this work was to correlate the percentage of arm fat mass (obtained through segmental bioimpedance) with anthropometric measurements, to generate a prediction formula valid for both genders. Methods: A sample of 100 individuals (50 women and 50 men) from 18 to 70 years old was analyzed in this observational study. A bioimpedance analysis was performed along with anthropometric determinations according to ISAK standards. Results: The percentage of arm fat mass estimated by bioimpedance strongly and positively correlated with the triceps and biceps skin folds, the arm fat area, and its percentage of fat area, in both sexes. In women, the percentage of arm fat mass also correlated with body mass index, arm circumference, and arm muscle area. Conclusion: Through a linear regression formula applicable to both sexes, the percentage of arm fat can be estimated from three anthropometric measurements.

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