Scheduled for Motor Behavior and Measurement Posters, Wednesday, April 2, 2003, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Convention Center: Exhibit Hall A


Reliability and Feasibility of Tanita Body Composition Scale in High School Physical Education and Health Classes

Scott Merritt, Ponnagansett High School, Foster, RI and Debra Ballinger, University of Rhode Island, West Greenwich, RI

This study examined the reliability and feasibility of using the Tanita Bioimpedance Scale as an alternative to skinfolds measurement to assess the body composition of High School (9-12) boys and girls in Physical Education and Health classes. Body composition was assessed at the beginning, middle and end of a 12 week unit in health and physical education classes at a Rhode Island High School by the physical education instructor. Furthermore, a questionnaire was used to assess the students’ preferences and attitudes toward body composition assessment using the two different techniques. Informed consent of students, and parental permission was obtained for students in the regular health and physical education classes of the principal investigator. Students participated in their regular health and physical education classes, and were assessed as part of the fitness units, which are recommended curricular components in the approved Rhode Island Health Standards and the drafted (2002) Rhode Island Physical Education Standards. Correlation coefficients reflected a test-retest reliability of .98 for the scale, and .97 for skinfolds (p<.01). ANOVA reflects no significant differences between body fat percentages derived from the two techniques. (p<.01). Students reported a slight preference for use of the scale over the skinfolds techniques. The scale took less time than the skinfolds technique for the teacher to administer, and students were able to self-assess with the scale, but not the skinfolds. Therefore, the researchers conclude that the bioimpedance scale is a viable alternative to skinfold assessment for use in routine body composition assessment in health and physical education classes. The teacher time and energy saved, and the ability of students to assess in a personal. private and confidential manner, and to use their results for setting personal goals reflect the intent of health-related fitness testing—for students to be able to self-assess and take personal responsibility for their well-being.

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