How to test your body fat?
The market is awash with various products claiming to give accurate body-fat calculations. Most of them use electrical impedance to give a rough estimate as to what that may be, however failing to factor in age, lean muscle tissue, water content, bone density and body type. Unfortunately the reading can be considerably off – which usually has a detrimental effect on someone’s motivation, if that person is working really hard to drop body-fat.
Body-fat at testing is a relatively new and increasingly popular method of measuring a person’s percentage of body fat. The test is used to determine how much of a person’s body is composed of fat and how much is composed of lean body mass. Knowing your body fat percentage can give you a better idea of your overall health, fitness, and how well you’re progressing with your fitness goals.
The most common method of body fat testing is caliper skinfold measurements, which are usually done by a professional. This involves using special calipers to pinch different parts of the skin and measure the amount of fat that is present. This is usually calculated via 7 or 11 sites across the body and then fed into a piece of software to calculate the total. Tests like this can be done at home, though it is best to have an experienced individual do the testing to ensure accuracy.
A newer method of body fat testing is bioelectrical impedance (BIA) analysis. This method uses a device that passes an electric current through the body, with the resistance of the current providing a measure of body fat. This method is most accurate when done in a well-hydrated state, and can give more precise results than caliper tests if done properly.
Dual energy xray absorptiometry (DXA scan) is another form of body fat testing that is more expensive and is often used in medical and scientific studies. This method uses two sources of x-ray beams to measure the amount of fat, bone, and muscle present in the body.
Finally, hydrostatic weighing is an older, more traditional form of body fat testing. This method is based on the principle that a body in water will displace a volume of liquid equal to its mass. By comparing the person’s weight in air with their weight in water, the amount of body fat can be determined.
Body fat testing can provide useful information about a person’s overall health, though it is important to remember that the results are not absolute. Each of the methods have their own level of accuracy, and other factors such as hydration, age, and fitness level can influence the accuracy of the assessments.
For those looking to monitor their fitness and health, body fat testing is a great tool that can give you valuable insights into your body composition. With the wide variety of methods available, there is sure to be an option that fits the needs and budget of any individual.
