Estimating Regional Body Composition in College Students
Author Information
Author(s): Ritchie Cameron B, Davidson Robert T
Primary Institution: Brigham Young University
Hypothesis
Can simple body size measurements predict regional body composition in college-aged individuals?
Conclusion
The study provides equations that allow for easy estimation of regional body composition using common body measurements.
Supporting Evidence
- The equations developed provide a simple method for estimating body composition.
- Multiple regression analysis showed strong correlations between body measurements and regional fat and lean mass.
- Standard errors of the estimates were smaller than expected changes in body composition.
Takeaway
This study shows that you can use simple measurements like height and waist size to guess how much fat is in different parts of your body.
Methodology
The study used DEXA technology to measure body composition and developed equations using multiple regression analysis based on body measurements.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the sample being predominantly Caucasian and college-aged individuals.
Limitations
The equations may not be suitable for identifying changes in regional body composition for small weight losses.
Participant Demographics
99 predominantly Caucasian college-aged volunteers (67 women and 32 men).
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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