A nomogram to predict lean body mass in men

Abstract

A simple three scale nomogram is presented to predict lean body mass in men from two anthropometric measurements: height and the circumference of the flexed biceps. The prediction equation used in constructing the nomogram was established from data collected on 198 USAF aircrewmen. Lean body mass was determined on these men by a standard tritium dilution technique. The equation was validated on a total of 65 additional flyers, comparing measurements obtained by tritium dilution (r = 0.91), 40K wholebody counter techniques (r = 0.90), and water-displacement techniques (r = 0.86). A second nomogram demonstrates the flexibility in using this anthropometric-type prediction of body composition to arrive at personalized weight standards.

Human Body Composition

“…Fuchs et al (1978) used an interesting approach in their study of a large group of adult men, whose body fat content ranged from 6 to 36%. They used the circumference of the arm with the biceps muscle flexed.…”

“…Data such as these serve to emphasize further the sex difference in muscle bulk that develops during adolescence. Fuchs et al (1978) used a formula containing height and flexed arm circumference to estimate LBM in a group of adult men, with rather good results (Chapter 2, p. 84). It would be of interest to derive such a formula for children and adolescents.…”