Key Takeaways

  • The Durnin & Womersley (1974) method is one of the most widely cited skinfold protocols, using four sites — biceps, triceps, subscapular, and suprailiac — to estimate body density.[1]
  • The equations are age- and sex-specific with 5 age bands per sex, improving accuracy across different demographics compared to single-equation models.
  • Body fat percentage is derived from body density using either the Siri equation (495/BD − 450) or the Brožek equation (457/BD − 414.2).
  • This 4-site method typically shows a standard error of estimate of 3.5–5% body fat when compared to reference methods like hydrostatic weighing.[2]

How the Durnin-Womersley Method Works

The original 1974 paper established regression equations that predict body density from the logarithm of the sum of four skinfold thicknesses:[1]

Body Density = c − m × log₁₀(sum of 4 skinfolds)

where c and m are sex- and age-band-specific coefficients

Body fat percentage is then converted using the Siri equation: BF% = (495 / BD) − 450, or optionally the Brožek equation: BF% = (457 / BD) − 414.2.

The Four Measurement Sites

SiteLocationFold Direction
BicepsFront of upper arm, midpoint between shoulder and elbowVertical
TricepsBack of upper arm, midpoint between acromion and olecranonVertical
SubscapularBelow the inferior angle of the scapula (shoulder blade)Diagonal (45°)
SuprailiacAbove the iliac crest (hip bone), on the midaxillary lineDiagonal (45°)

Each measurement should be taken on the right side of the body, using calibrated skinfold calipers. Take three measurements at each site and use the median value.

Durnin-Womersley vs. Jackson-Pollock

Both methods are widely used skinfold protocols but differ in their site selection and population focus:

  • Durnin-Womersley: 4 sites (biceps, triceps, subscapular, suprailiac), age-band-specific, applicable to a broad population including older adults.
  • Jackson-Pollock 3-site: 3 sex-specific sites (chest, abdomen, thigh for males; triceps, suprailiac, thigh for females), uses a quadratic age correction.

For other skinfold assessments, see the Jackson-Pollock 3-Site, Jackson-Pollock 4-Site, Jackson-Pollock 7-Site, or Parrillo 9-Site calculators. For circumference-based methods, the US Navy Body Fat Calculator requires only neck, waist, and hip measurements.

Accuracy and Limitations

  • Accuracy depends heavily on consistent measurement technique. Inter-tester variability can be significant without standardized training.
  • The Siri and Brožek equations assume a constant density of fat-free mass, which varies slightly between populations and with hydration status.
  • The equations were developed primarily on European populations and may have reduced accuracy for other demographic groups.[1]
  • Skinfold measurements are less reliable at very high or very low body fat levels.
  • This calculator provides informational body composition estimates — not a substitute for clinical assessment via DXA, BodPod, or hydrostatic weighing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & References

  1. Body Fat Assessed from Total Body Density and Its Estimation from Skinfold Thickness: Measurements on 481 Men and Women Aged from 16 to 72 Years. Durnin JVGA, Womersley J. British Journal of Nutrition (1974)
  2. Body Composition Methods: Comparisons and Interpretation. Weir CB, Jan A. StatPearls / ScienceDirect (2023)
  3. Accuracy of Skinfold-Based Body Fat Equations: A Systematic Review. Peterson MJ, Czerwinski SA, Siervogel RM. Journal of Sports Sciences (2003)
  4. The Making of a Classic: The 1974 Durnin-Womersley Body Composition Paper. Wells JCK. British Journal of Nutrition (2014)
Manish Kumar
Manish Kumar

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NASM-certified fitness and nutrition coach with over 10 years of hands-on experience helping people build strength, lose fat, and live healthier lives. Specializing in gym-based workouts with a strong focus on lifting technique, biomechanics, and practical exercise science. Through FitLifeRegime, sharing the tools, tips, and insights that have worked for hundreds of clients — helping you start your own fitness journey with confidence and clarity.

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