What is the main disadvantage of skinfold measurements?

The main disadvantage of skinfold measurements lies in the requirement for skilled personnel to obtain accurate and reliable results. This method involves using calipers to measure the thickness of skinfolds at various sites on the body, and the accuracy of these measurements heavily depends on the technician's skill and experience. Inconsistent technique or poor measurement can lead to inaccurate body fat assessments, which can misinform individuals about their body composition.

While skinfold measurements are relatively low-cost compared to some other body composition methods, the crucial factor remains the requirement of skilled personnel who can perform the technique consistently and correctly. This means that without the right training and experience, the reliability of skinfold measurements can be compromised, limiting its effectiveness as a body composition assessment tool.

The other options address aspects that are not as significant in the context of skinfold measurement's limitations. For example, while skinfold can measure predominantly subcutaneous fat, it's essential to note that most applicable methods do focus on that rather than other fat types like visceral fat.