Comparison of circumference-based equation and air displacement plethysmography to assess body fat percentage and evaluation of intervention for Army ROTC cadets to meet body composition standards.

This study was designed to determine the correlation between manual anthropometric measurements that are used in the United States Army to determine body fat percentage and measurements taken using the BOD POD. Additionally, this study investigated the effectiveness of a fitness and nutritional intervention program in reducing the number of cadets not meeting the Army standard for body fat percentage. Ten adults participated from Baylor University Army ROTC. Body fat percentage data were collected from the Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard (DA Form 705) and the BOD POD. Diet and exercise journals were used in the intervention program. Finally, a post study survey was conducted. There was a significant difference in the manual anthropometric and BOD POD body fat percentages, not in the cadet’s favor. A downward trend was observed in body fat percentage for intervention cadets. However, more time could be needed to meet body composition standards.