What is NOT a method for assessing body composition?

Self-assessment questionnaires are not a direct method for assessing body composition. Unlike the other options listed, which provide empirical and measurable data about an individual’s body fat and composition, self-assessment questionnaires rely on subjective input from the individual. These questionnaires typically gather information about perceived body image, nutritional habits, and exercise frequency rather than providing a quantifiable measurement of body fat, muscle mass, or other components that can be evaluated through physical methods.

In contrast, skinfold measurements, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry are all direct methods offering specific, data-driven insights into body composition. Skinfold measurements use calipers to assess the thickness of skinfolds at specific sites on the body, bioelectrical impedance analysis evaluates body composition by measuring the resistance of electrical flow through the body's tissues, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry employs low-dose X-rays to differentiate between bone, fat, and lean tissues. These methods yield precise and scientifically validated results, making them standard practices in body composition assessment.