COMPARISON BETWEEN BODY FAT MEASUREMENTS OBTAINED BY PORTABLE ULTRASOUND AND SKINFOLDS IN MALE ATHLETES

Introduction: Aim of this study was to compare the repeatibility of the evaluation of body composition with the portable ultrasound measuring technique by BodyMetrix TM BX2000 and with the skinfold measuring technique, in order to estimate body fat percentage in fitness athletes. Materials e methods: Twenty-four male athletes have been recruited in a fitness centre. Ultrasound and skinfold measurements were detected on the right side of the body in 3 anatomical points: chest, abdominal and thigh. Results: The results obtained by both techniques showed a high correlation with final body fat mass (%), although differences have been observed with both methods in each anatomical site. Conclusions: The assessment of body composition is an important parameter that allows us to have an estimate of the percentage of body fat. Therefore, it is a fundamental criterion for both the professionals of wellness and the athlete, since allows to verify the results produced by dietary plans and training.