and muscle weakness present in postural dysfunction. When this
is observed, specific exercises to address this postural dysfunc-
tion can be added to the program.Body Composition
I
t is well documented that excess body fat, specifically at the abdo-
men, strongly correlate with chronic disease such as diabetes,
hypertension, CVD, high cholesterol, and stroke^4. Body composi-
tion is a measure of the amount of lean mass compared to fat mass
in the body. It is often expressed as a percentage of fat. Tests such
as Hydrostatic Weighing (underwater weighing) require specialized
equipment and advanced training. There are several field tests and
assessment tools that vary in complexity, cost, tools, and accuracy.
The following tests can be performed by CFES personal trainers.Girth Measurements
Girth measurements are circumference measures at standard
anatomical sites around the body. These numbers can be used to
establish baseline measures and then adaptations following train-
ing. In addition, the pattern of body fat distribution is an important
predictor of chronic disease. For example, research shows that
waist circumference and BMI give the greatest scientific predictor
of health risk. In addition, the sagittal abdominal diameter is an
excellent indirect measure of visceral fat
and is more strongly related to risk factors
for CVD and metabolic diseases^2.The accuracy of girth measurements can
be within 2.5 per cent to four per cent of
the actual body composition if the subject
has similar characteristics to the original
validation population and the girth mea-
surements are precise^5.Equipment needed: Gulick tape measure
(cloth tape measure with a spring loaded
handle) or a flexible, yet inelastic tape mea-
sure.Protocols:
All measurements should be taken on the
right side of the body. Stand to the side of
the client when measuring (not in front or
directly behind).• When taking girth measurements the Chapter 8 Fitness Assessment Protocols and Practical Skills
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