Weight and size charts arent one size fits all as they dont consider key factors for a persons overall health. Focusing on body fat percentage instead of weight is much more useful to track fat loss progress. R sung p lau c yu et al. These are measurements of excess body fat not a precise measurement of body composition. When measured properly its accuracy is typically within 5 per cent of the body fat value measured using underwater weighing which is one of the most accurate ways of measuring body composition. Body fat scales can be an easy way to track your body fat percentage but they may not tell the complete story about your health.
Measurement of body fat using leg to leg bioimpedance. Likewise a muscular athlete with a low body fat percentage may weigh more than traditional height weight. Although the test takes a measurement from each main area of the body including the upper body midsection and lower body a participant that holds greater amounts of fat outside of the measured areas might end up with a lower reading. I have an overview of the 5 most common methods of how to measure body fat percentage below along with the only method to perfectly measure body fat percentage. Body fat measurement has for some time been considered an ideal way to chart physical improvement with various skin fold techniques generally considered the most convenient accessible and cost effective way. Department of paediatrics the chinese university of hong kong shatin hong kong.
While these 5 methods vary in accuracy the key to assessing body fat levels is consistent measurements over time repeatability so that you can effectively track your progress. Accuracy can also vary depending on various factors including. Lowering your body fat percentage is also crucial for getting that six pack of. Measuring changes in body composition is one of the most effective means of evaluating your diet and workout routine. A thin person can still have an unhealthy amount of body fat lurking beneath their skin. Here are the 10 best ways to measure your body fat percentage.
For the most accurate body fat measurement turn to a doctor or trainer. Body fat distribution can factor into the accuracy level as well.