Anatomical Distribution and Total Mass of Subcutaneous Fat on the Trunk and Limbs in Japanese Females

Abstract

Twenty-eight skinfold measurements taken from 223 Japanese females, ranging in age from 16 to 26 years, were analyzed to study the anatomical distribution and total mass of subcutaneous fat on the trunk and limbs. The measured thicknesses of subcutaneous fat varied on average from 5.8 to 22.7 mm. The thicker skinfolds were obtained from the abdomen, waist, and thigh. The calculated total mass of subcutaneous fat on the trunk and limbs was 13.7α3.78 kg, corresponding to 23.3α3.87% of total body weight. The slopes of the regression lines between the total mass of subcutaneous fat and skinfolds ranged from 0.22 to 2.19. The slopes obtained for the abdomen, greater trochanter and thigh were steeper than those for other regions. It is suggested that the Japanese females have greater skinfolds at the abdomen, waist and thigh than at other regions, and that differences exist among various regions in subcutaneous fat accumulation. © 1993, The Japanese Society of Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine. All rights reserved.