Boileau Formula for Calculating Body Fat Percentage



The Boileau equation is a body fat percentage equation mainly used for athletic youth males and females (ages 6-18) that uses just 2 skinfold sites.

Boileau Equation Measurement Sites

  • Tríceps
  • Subescapular
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What is the ideal body fat percentage for men and women?

Boileau Body Fat Percentage Equation for Men

Measure the following skinfolds (in millimeters) with a skinfold caliper: Tríceps and Subescapular

Percentage of Body Fat (%) = 1.35 x (triceps + subscapular skinfolds) – 0.012 x (triceps + subscapular skinfolds)2 – X

X = 3.4 (6 to 11 years old); 4.4 (12 to 14 years old); 5.4 (15 to 17 years old)

Boileau Body Fat Percentage Equation for Women

Measure the following skinfolds (in millimeters) with a skinfold caliper: Tríceps and Subescapular

Percentage of Body Fat (%) = 1.35 x (triceps + subscapular skinfolds) – 0.012 x (triceps + subscapular skinfolds)2 – X

X = 1.4 (6 to 10 years old); 2.4 (11 to 13 years old); 3.4 (14 to 15 years old); 4.0 (16 to 18 years old)