Purpose
Determining frame size, body mass index, and body fat composition are excellent ways to assess general health and fitness components. In this lab we will determine all three.
Materials
? Body composition worksheet, one per student
? Fat o meter book, one per pair
? Fat caliper, one per pair
? Tape measure
? Scale
? Ruler
Procedures
1. Determine height and record the figure in the table.
2. Determine weight and record the figure in the table.
3. Determine frame size by sitting in a desk and placing a bent elbow on the desk. Place a book on the inside of the elbow and measure from one end of the elbow to the other. In inches, record the figure in the table provided. Compare your findings to the chart on the wall.
4. Find your BMI by using the handout provided (Quetlet index).
5. Use the instructions given in the fat o meter book to determine your skinfold measurements for the following:
Males Females
Chest Triceps
Abdomen Supraillium (love handle)
Thigh Thigh
6. Compare the sum of the average of the three measurements to the table on page 11 in the fat o meter book. Be sure to compare for the correct age and sum of the skinfolds to get your percentage of body fat.
7. Determine your body fat in pounds, lean body weight, and ideal body weight based on the following ideal body fat percentages for:
Males Females
8-24% 12-29%
>25% = obesity >30% = obesity
Body Composition Worksheet
Name_____________________ Date__/__/__ Gender: M F
Age ______ Height _____ Weight _____
Method Measurement Classification/Comment
Frame Size _______________ Small Medium Large
(Elbow Width)
Quetlet Index (p136) _______________
Desirable (20-25)
Grade 1 Obesity (25-30)
Grade 2 Obesity (30-40)
Grade 3 Obesity (over 40)
Skinfolds (averages) Male Female
Chest/Triceps _____ _____
Abdomen/Suprailliac _____ _____
Thigh _____ _____
Total Skinfolds _____ _____
Percent Body Fat _____ _____
Body Fat (Pounds) _____ _____ Lean Optimal Overfat
Fat Obese
Lean Body Weight _____ _____
Ideal Body Weight _____ _____
How does your ideal body weight compare to what is recommended?