What is the primary limitation of using circumference measurements for body composition?

Using circumference measurements for body composition is primarily limited because they do not provide a direct measurement of body fat percentage. While these measurements can give an indication of body size and possible fat distribution, they rely on the assumption that certain body parts are correlated with overall body fat levels. For example, a larger waist circumference may suggest a higher level of visceral fat, which is associated with various health risks, but it does not quantify the exact amount of body fat present.

Other methods, such as skinfold measurements or bioelectrical impedance analysis, are designed to estimate body fat percentage more directly. Circumference measurements provide a useful screening tool and can help track changes over time, but they lack the specificity and accuracy necessary to determine precise body fat levels. This limitation is crucial when evaluating an individual's overall health and fitness, especially in contexts where specific fat levels are essential for assessment or performance optimization.