Do you know what is your current body-fat level? How to measure your body fat level to keep track on your fitness progression?
Measuring Your Body-Fat Part 1:
The 3 basic ways and 1 unique & simple way of tracking body-fat level.
1. The Gold Standard - Hydrostatic Weighing
One of the most accurate body composition assessment method.
Fat assessment are based on calculations derived from hydrostatic weighing. Found in most exercise physiology centers.
This method measures the amount of water a person displaces when completely submerged! It is not practical in a fitness setting due to the large equipment size and the complexity of the technique.
2. The Skinfold Measurements
Very commonly used in the fitness industry.
Skinfold calipers are used to pinch a fold of skin and fat. Several sites on the body are typically measured. The measurements are plugged into an equation that calculates the body-fat percentage. The accuracy of Skinfold measurements are based coach/trainer's measuring skills.
3. BIA - Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis
BIA machines can be found in every commercial fitness center due to simplicity of use.
BIA measures electrical signals as they pass through fat, lean mass and water in the body. Individuals hydration is necessary for accurate results. Many protocols to be applied related to accuracy of this assessment - no exercise before, no alcohol, no caffeine, no eating and etc.
So which is the best method to assess your body-fat?
1.Gold standard aka Hydrostatic deliver the most accurate body composition results.
It is very hard to find, technique for this body composition are very complex to be done and it is pricey.
2.Skinfold measurements can be very accurate, but you need a same good coach/trainer to run this assessment with you. Pinching involved and some people doesn't feel comfortable with this assessment method.
3.BIA is less-sophisticated, the fastest & easiest method to assess body composition.
BIA measurements are less accurate, it can be demotivating, confusing, and misleading when it shows different body composition results everyday due to inaccuracy of the body composition.
My best pick?
4. The Image!
Will reveal at Measuring Your Body-Fat Part 2. Please stay tune!
Image References
http://weightology.net
http://bodybuilding.com
http://prague-stay.com
