Body Fat Calculator Jackson Pollock

Jackson-Pollock Formula:

\[ Body Fat Percentage = \frac{495}{Density} - 450 \] \[ Density = 1.10938 - (0.0008267 \times \sum Skinfolds) + (0.0000016 \times (\sum Skinfolds)^2) - (0.0002574 \times Age) \]

Chest Skinfold (mm):

Abdominal Skinfold (mm):

Thigh Skinfold (mm):

Age:

years

Body Fat Percentage:

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1. What is the Jackson-Pollock Formula?

The Jackson-Pollock formula is a widely used method for estimating body fat percentage using skinfold measurements. It calculates body density which is then converted to body fat percentage using the Siri equation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Jackson-Pollock 3-site formula:

\[ Body Fat Percentage = \frac{495}{Density} - 450 \] \[ Density = 1.10938 - (0.0008267 \times \sum Skinfolds) + (0.0000016 \times (\sum Skinfolds)^2) - (0.0002574 \times Age) \]

Where:

\( \sum Skinfolds \) — Sum of chest, abdominal, and thigh skinfolds (mm)
\( Age \) — Age in years
495 and 450 — Constants in the Siri equation for converting density to body fat percentage

Explanation: The formula estimates body density based on subcutaneous fat measurements and age, then converts this to body fat percentage.

3. Importance of Body Fat Measurement

Details: Body fat percentage is a more accurate indicator of health than weight alone. It helps assess fitness levels, monitor progress in weight management programs, and identify health risks associated with excessive body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter skinfold measurements in millimeters for chest, abdominal, and thigh sites. All measurements should be taken with proper calipers by a trained professional for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is the Jackson-Pollock formula?
A: When measurements are taken correctly by a trained professional, it has about ±3-4% accuracy compared to more advanced methods like DEXA scans.

Q2: What are healthy body fat percentages?
A: For men: 6-24% (athletes: 6-13%, fitness: 14-17%, average: 18-24%). For women: 16-30% (athletes: 14-20%, fitness: 21-24%, average: 25-30%).

Q3: How often should body fat be measured?
A: Every 4-8 weeks is sufficient to track changes, as body fat changes slowly over time.

Q4: Are there limitations to this method?
A: Accuracy can be affected by measurement technique, hydration status, and individual variations in fat distribution.

Q5: Can I use this formula if I'm very overweight or underweight?
A: The formula works best for average populations. Extremes of body composition may reduce accuracy.