What is a con of skinfold measurements?

Skinfold measurements are a common method used to estimate body fat percentage by measuring the thickness of skinfolds at various sites on the body. One notable drawback of this method is that it may not yield accurate results for individuals who are classified as overfat or obese. In these populations, the distribution and composition of body fat can differ significantly from those of average weight individuals, leading to potential underestimation or overestimation of body fat percentage based on the skinfold measurements.

This limitation is rooted in the assumptions made during the calculation of body fat percentage, which are typically derived from studies that predominantly include individuals of normal weight. When applied to those who have excessive body fat, the equations may not accurately account for variations in fat distribution and density. Therefore, while skinfold measurements can provide useful estimates for some individuals, they may be less reliable for those in the overfat category, making it crucial for clinicians to consider alternative assessment methods or to use skinfold measurements in conjunction with other techniques to obtain a more accurate picture of body composition.