[Proposed equations for predicting the amount of body fat in young adults]

The purpose of this study was to derive regression equations to estimate body density based on skinfold thickness values in young adults. The sample was formed of 206 subjects, 110 males and 96 females, ranging from 18 to 30 years of age. The hydrostatic method was used to determine body density and fat percent. Skinfold thickness was measured at the biceps, triceps, subscapula, mid-axillary, rupra-iliac, abdomen, thigh, and calf with a HARPENDEN skinfold fat caliper. The equations were cross validated on a different of 41 subjects with similar age and physical characteristics. The regression equations suggested in this study were shown to be valid when applied to the Brazilian population: however the equations using three skinfold measures were considered the most useful ones, because of their practicality when used in evaluations of large populations.