Objective: To develop a prediction equation to estimate the body fat percentage of young men using simple measurements.
Methods: Subjects were 150 males, age 18 to 26 years. Self-reported lifestyle variables and measured circumferences were used to predict body fat percentage, assessed using hydrostatic weighing.
Results: The final model included 7 variables. The equation had a SEE of 2.66% and a PRESS SEE of 2.82%, and accounted for 80% of the variance in the criterion, body fat percentage.
Conclusions: The regression equation developed in this study accurately estimates body fat percentage in young men by using simple, inexpensive measures.