Top Three Ways To Measure Body Fat
The four major methods of measuring body fat include the Navy Method, Home Body Fat Scales, Skinfold Calipers and Hydrostatic Weighing. For this article however; we will concentrate on the three most commonly used.
The first technique is the Home Body Fat Scale. A very small electrical charge is passed through the body, and a resistance measurement is taken. When you compare the results to your actual body weight, your body fat can be determined.
There are many factors that can affect the outcome of this test. This is the most error prone of the tests in this article. The electrical currents from the heart and the skeletal muscles can affect the results; as can water in the body. Skin temperature and physical activity can also have a direct impact on the test readings. Exercise should be avoided for at least 12 hours before the test as well as food for 4 hours before.
The most commonly used method for determining body fat is the Skin Fold Caliper test. It is possible to do this yourself if you have an easy to use caliper and follow the direction closely. The Accumeasuer Caliper is probably the best choice if you do it yourself. It is highly recommended that you have this test done by a professional to get accurate results. A set of body fat calipers is used to take several measurements on different body parts. When these measurements are plugged into a formula your body fat can be determined.
One of the most accurate ways to measure your body fat is Hydrostatic Weighing. This method of measuring body fat is based on the Archimedes principle. If you studied physics in school you will know exactly what I am talking about. If you didn’t, you will better understand after I go through the process. First of all, you need to round up a hydrostatic weighing tank and someone who knows what they are doing. The examiner will calculate your body density by measuring the water that is displaced while you are immersed in the tank. The amount of water that is displaced is proportional to your body weight. Your body fat is then calculated with a formula based on your body density. Most people find this to be an extreme way to measure body fat, but it 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.
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