Body Fat Percentage
Body Composition Assessment
Assessment Result
Fat Mass
Lean Mass
ACE Classification (American Council on Exercise)
Pollock Classification (by age and sex)
ACE Reference Table
| Classification | Men (%) | Women (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Fat | 2–5% | 10–13% |
| Athletes | 6–13% | 14–20% |
| Fitness | 14–17% | 21–24% |
| Acceptable | 18–24% | 25–31% |
| Obesity | ≥ 25% | ≥ 32% |
Pollock Reference Table (by age)
Men
| Age | Excellent | Good | Average | Below Avg | Poor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18–25 | < 10% | 10–13% | 14–17% | 18–21% | > 21% |
| 26–35 | < 12% | 12–15% | 16–19% | 20–23% | > 23% |
| 36–45 | < 14% | 14–17% | 18–21% | 22–25% | > 25% |
| 46–55 | < 16% | 16–19% | 20–23% | 24–27% | > 27% |
| 56+ | < 17% | 17–20% | 21–24% | 25–28% | > 28% |
Women
| Age | Excellent | Good | Average | Below Avg | Poor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18–25 | < 17% | 17–20% | 21–24% | 25–28% | > 28% |
| 26–35 | < 18% | 18–21% | 22–25% | 26–29% | > 29% |
| 36–45 | < 20% | 20–23% | 24–27% | 28–31% | > 31% |
| 46–55 | < 22% | 22–25% | 26–29% | 30–33% | > 33% |
| 56+ | < 23% | 23–26% | 27–30% | 31–34% | > 34% |
About the Assessment Methods
Jackson & Pollock (3 Skinfolds)
The most widely used method for its practicality and good accuracy. Extensively validated in the scientific literature, with high correlation with DEXA (r > 0.85). Endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as a standard field method for body composition assessment in clinical and research settings.
Jackson & Pollock (7 Skinfolds)
Considered the field gold standard. More accurate but more time-consuming. Ideal for detailed assessments and athlete monitoring.
US Navy
Circumference-based method. Very practical (requires only a tape measure) but less accurate than skinfold methods. Useful for rapid screening.
Important Considerations
• Hydration: Assess when the subject is normally hydrated (avoid dehydration or excessive fluid retention).
• Timing: Preferably assess at the same time of day for serial comparisons (morning is ideal).
• Technique: Accuracy depends on correct assessor technique. Measurements should be taken 3 times and the mean used.
• Calipers: For skinfolds, use calibrated scientific calipers (e.g. Harpenden, Lange and Cescorf).
• Limitations: Field methods have a margin of error of ±3–5%. For greater accuracy, consider DEXA or air displacement plethysmography.
• Exercise: Avoid assessment immediately after intense exercise (wait 24–48 h).
• Altitude: In high-altitude regions, body composition norms may differ from values derived from sea-level populations. Interpret results with clinical context in these situations.
References
- 1. Jackson AS, Pollock ML. "Generalized equations for predicting body density of men." Br J Nutr. 1978;40(3):497–504. PubMed ↗
- 2. Jackson AS, Pollock ML, Ward A. "Generalized equations for predicting body density of women." Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1980;12(3):175–181. PubMed ↗
- 3. Hodgdon JA, Beckett MB. "Prediction of percent body fat for U.S. Navy men and women from body circumferences and height." Naval Health Research Center Technical Report Nos. 84-11 / 84-29. San Diego, CA; 1984.