Back to Research Overview
Research
YMCA Method
The YMCA and Modified YMCA formulas estimate body fat from weight and circumference measurements.
2 sources
What the evidence says
Evidence limitations
This page does not cite a study that establishes either formula’s accuracy.
Original YMCA inputs
The YMCA formula uses weight and waist circumference.
Modified YMCA inputs
Modified YMCA adds wrist, forearm and hip circumferences for women.
Method Details
Both methods require a body-weight scale and soft tape measure.
Original YMCA Protocol
Basic Measurements
- Body weight
- Waist circumference
Calculation Factors
- Gender-specific equations
Modified YMCA Protocol
Required Measurements
- Weight and waist circumference (all users)
- Wrist circumference (women)
- Forearm circumference (women)
- Hip circumference (women)
Equation Differences
- Different equations for men and women
- Additional circumference measurements for women
What this means for your measurement
Evidence limitations
The references below identify fitness manuals.
This page does not cite a study that establishes either formula’s accuracy or an accuracy advantage for Modified YMCA.