ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The skinfold measurement at the abdominal location is taken vertically 2 cm to the right of the umbilicus. This specific site is chosen because it provides a reliable estimate of subcutaneous fat in the abdominal area, which is often a key indicator of overall body fat and distribution. By measuring at this point, it minimizes variations due to posture, muscle contractions, and other factors that could alter the skinfold thickness.

The other options refer to skinfold measurement sites that are associated with different anatomical landmarks and serve different purposes. For example, measuring halfway up the triceps assesses a different body region (the triceps) and is relevant for evaluating upper body fat levels. Similarly, the diagonal measurement halfway between the nipple and anterior axillary line focuses on pectoral region assessment, while the diagonal measurement 2 cm above the suprailiac crest is indicative of lower back fat. Each site offers unique insights into body composition but does not apply to the abdominal site standard procedure.