How significant can errors on skinfold assessment measurements be?

Skinfold assessments are a common method used to estimate body fat percentage by measuring the thickness of skinfolds at various sites on the body. The accuracy of these measurements is influenced by several factors, including the skill of the practitioner, the quality of the calipers used, and the hydration status of the individual being measured. A significant source of variability in skinfold measurements can stem from the technique used to pinch the skinfold, the site selected for measurement, and the timing of the assessment in relation to physical activity or food intake.

The consensus within the field indicates that errors in skinfold assessments can generally fall into the range of 10-15%. This acknowledges that although skinfold measurements are a widely accepted practice, they are not precise, and variations can occur. Therefore, while the upper limit of variability can approach 20%, it is typically understood that a more realistic expectation for error in a controlled setting aligns with the 10-15% range. Subsequent higher estimates, while possible in less controlled environments or with inexperienced practitioners, do not reflect the general consensus for accurate skinfold measurement practices. Thus, the choice indicating an error margin of 10-15% provides a reasonable expectation for practitioners in the field.