Which technique is considered the gold standard for measuring body fat percentage?

Hydrostatic weighing is regarded as the gold standard for measuring body fat percentage because it provides highly accurate and reliable results by using the principle of buoyancy. This technique involves measuring a person's weight underwater and comparing it to their weight on land. The difference in weight allows for the calculation of body density, from which body fat percentage can be derived using established formulas.

This method is based on Archimedes' principle, which states that an object submerged in fluid will experience an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. A more accurate assessment can be obtained through hydrostatic weighing because it accounts for the density of lean tissue and fat tissue, providing more precise body fat percentages compared to other methods.

Other techniques such as skinfold measurements, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and air displacement plethysmography can offer valuable estimates of body fat but are typically less accurate and may be influenced by various factors such as hydration status, operator skill, and the specific calibration of devices.