Body Composition Scale – Body Fat Measuring

There are basically four major methods of measuring body fat. They include the Navy Method, Home Body Fat Scales, Skinfold Calipers and Hydrostatic Weighing. In this article we will look at the three that are most commonly used.

Home Body Fat Scales – This device measures body fat using the Bio metrical Impedance method. A very small electrical current is passed through your body and the resistance is measured. When this result is compared to the weight, the percentage of body fat can then be determined.

This test is prone to error however; because the impedance in the body is altered by other body parts that also generate some current. One example is the electrical waves in the heart and the skeletal muscles. Other factors include water in your body, your skin temperature and physical activity. In order to get semi reliable results you should also fast for 3-4 hours before the test, and avoid any form of physical activity at least 12 hours before the test.

Probably the most popular method of body fat testing is the Skin Fold Caliper test. This test should be performed by someone trained in this method. You can do it yourself but it is not recommended. If you just have to do it without professional help, I recommend getting a set of Accumeasure calipers. These are quite accurate if you follow the provided directions closely. Your skin is pinched between the calipers and a measurement is taken. After taking measurements from different parts of the body; they are plugged into a formula and your body fat is determined.

Hydrostatic weighing is the most accurate way to measure body fat. If you studied physics in school then you are familiar with the Archimedes Principle. The principle states that an objects density is proportional to the amount of water it displaces when submerged. The tester will submerge the subject in a Hydrostatic weighing tank and measure the displacement. The tester then calculates the subjects body density. Body fat is then determined by a formula based on your body density. This method takes the longest and is probably the most complicated; but it still remains the most accurate.

Why bother with measuring your body fat anyway? After all, it seems like a lot of trouble. Knowledge of the exact amount of fat in your body can help you set realistic goals for your weight loss plans. Body fat is an important element in successful weight control. You will be objective and scientific choosing the program that is the best way for you to lose weight. Keeping track of fat loss is the same as watching your calorie intake or getting on scales and checking your weight. Fat measurement is the only way you can objectively track the success or progress of your weight loss program.

When choosing a supplement to add to your diet and exercise program be sure and check out the #1 Fat Binder on the market.