A comparison of military circumference equations to skinfold-based equations to estimate body composition.
Circumference-based military equations (CBEs) were compared with a skinfold-based equation (SBE) to estimate body fat.


OBJECTIVE
We determined the correlation between CBEs and SBE, evaluated the efficacy of CBE methods, and examined the difference in methods to identify noncompliant personnel. Circumference and skinfold measurements were taken in sequential order for 1,191 male civil service employees (37.9 +/- 7.9 years).


RESULTS
Percent body fat was estimated for SBE (18.4 +/- 6.1) and three different CBEs: Marine Corps (19.6 +/- 5.8), Navy/Air Force (20.4 +/- 5.8), and Army (20.6 +/- 5.2). A moderate correlation coefficient existed between SBE and CBEs (r = 0.76-0.79). A greater body fat percentage was estimated in noncompliant personnel with circumference methods.


CONCLUSIONS
Data moderately correlate CBEs and SBE. However, CBEs predict higher estimates, resulting in a greater number of personnel classified as noncompliant.
Sport and Exercise Science, Ohio State University, 344 Larkins Hall, 337 West 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
Carmen J
CJ
Babcock
Timothy E
TE
Kirby
Michele L
ML
McCarroll
Steven T
ST
Devor
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001823:Body Composition; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008889:Military Personnel; D012885:Skinfold Thickness