Reliability and tester’s competency of selected skinfold measurements of female non-sportsperson (a bilateral approach)

Objective: The main aim of this study was to assess the reliability and tester competency in measuring selected skinfold thickness among female non-sportsperson, with a specific focus on bilateral (left and right side) comparisons. Methods: A total of 200 female non-sportsperson, aged 18 to 25 years not having a proper sports background, were randomly selected from the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, India. Skinfold thickness was measured for the landmarks including chin, cheek, biceps, triceps, mid-axillary, forearm, subscapular, 10th rib, abdomen, suprailiac, supraspinale, medial thigh, and medial calf, on both the left and right sides of the body. The selected measurement was recorded three times using a Harpenden skinfold caliper by following the standard procedures prescribed by ISAK. The reliability and internal consistency of the measurements were analysed using the Pearson’s coefficient of correlation, Cronbach’s alpha, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The findings revealed excellent test-retest reliability and internal consistency across all measured sites on both sides of the body. Pearson’s correlation coefficients exhibitedexcellent correlation between repeated measurements of each skinfold. Cronbach’s alpha values were consistently excellent, indicating strong internal consistency. ANOVA results further supported the statistical reliability of the measurements across three trials. Conclusion: The study concludes excellent reliability and tester competency in regards to bilateral skinfold measurements using standardized procedures. This research contributes a novel approach by applying Pearson’s correlation, Cronbach’s alpha, and ANOVA altogether to assess the reliability of measurement, along with a comprehensive bilateral analysis.