How to Use Body Fat Calipers
Consistency is key. For best results, take measurements on the right side of the body, and try to have the same person measure you each time if possible.
01
Pinch & Pull
Firmly pinch a fold of skin and subcutaneous fat between your thumb and index finger. Pull it away from the underlying muscle.
02
Place Calipers
Place the jaws of the caliper perpendicular to the fold, about 1 cm away from your fingers. Do not release your pinch.
03
Read Quickly
Release the trigger of the caliper so it exerts full pressure. Read the measurement within 2 seconds to avoid tissue compression errors.
The 3 Measurement Sites
MEN
- ChestDiagonal fold. Located halfway between the anterior axillary line (front of armpit) and the nipple.
- AbdominalVertical fold. Located 2 cm to the right of the umbilicus (belly button).
- ThighVertical fold. Located on the anterior midline of the thigh, midway between the hip and knee.
WOMEN
- TricepVertical fold. Located on the posterior midline of the upper arm, halfway between the shoulder and elbow.
- SuprailiacDiagonal fold. Located just above the iliac crest (hip bone) on the midaxillary line.
- ThighVertical fold. Located on the anterior midline of the thigh, midway between the hip and knee.
More Body Measurements
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are calipers more accurate than smart scales?
Generally, yes. Smart scales (Bioimpedance) are heavily influenced by your hydration levels. Drinking a glass of water can change the result by 2-3%. Skinfold calipers measure actual subcutaneous fat thickness, which is a consistent physical property, providing results within 3-4% accuracy when done correctly.
How hard do I squeeze the calipers?
Most calipers are spring-loaded to apply a consistent standard pressure (usually 10g/mm²). You simply press the lever until it clicks or until the lines align. Do not manually squeeze the jaws together harder than the spring tension.
Why are measurements different for men and women?
Men and women store fat in different primary locations due to hormonal differences. Men tend to store visceral and subcutaneous fat in the abdomen (android pattern), while women store it in the hips and triceps (gynoid pattern). The Jackson-Pollock equations account for these biological differences.
What is a good body fat percentage?
For men, 14-17% is considered 'Fitness' level and 6-13% is 'Athlete' level. For women, 21-24% is 'Fitness' and 14-20% is 'Athlete'. Essential fat (needed for survival) is 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women.
Tools & Data Verified by the EverydayCalculators Medical Research Team.
Last updated: December 2026.