Body fat percentage prediction equations are formulas used to estimate the amount of body fat a person has. They are typically used by fitness professionals and researchers to assess body composition. One common example is the Jackson-Pollock 3-site skinfold equation, which uses measurements from the triceps, abdominal, and thigh to predict body fat percentage.
These equations are important because they provide a non-invasive way to estimate body fat. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Historically, the first body fat prediction equation was developed in 1945 by Siri.