
Similarly, a body fat scale is a handheld device that works on the same principle. If the current travels slowly, this usually indicates a higher body fat percentage. The speed at which current travels helps detect the amount of body fat. During the test, a small, harmless electric current is passed through the body. Bioimpedance analysis (BIA) or body fat scalesĪ BIA test works on the principle that water and fat conduct electric currents differently.

However, the machine is only available in some hospitals and research institutions, where it is typically reserved for research studies and not for general public use.

Not only does a DEXA scan provide fast results, but it is also widely accepted as the gold standard for obtaining a comprehensive analysis of body composition. The scan generates a “fat shadow” image that shows the distribution of fat in the abdomen, arms, legs, and pelvis. However, it can also provide measurements of body composition (including muscle and bone) and fat content in specific parts of your body. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA/DXA) scanĪ DEXA scan is a test that uses a low-dose X-ray to measure bone density. However, it needs technical expertise and can be quite expensive. The BOD POD test is highly accurate and gives fast results. Then when you are in the chamber, your body fat percentage is calculated by measuring the amount of air your body displaces upon entering. Before you enter the chamber, your body weight and volume measurements are taken. During the test, you are enclosed in a computerized, egg-shaped chamber called a BOD POD. BOD PODīOD POD testing uses the principle of air displacement plethysmography (ADP). However, it is time-consuming and requires special equipment that may not be available everywhere. To measure your weight in water, you will be seated undressed on a chair that is halfway submerged in water.Īccording to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), this is the gold standard for calculating body fat because of its high accuracy. This technique involves measuring your weight on dry land followed by measuring it in water. Navy, to calculate body fat percentage using tape measurements.5 tests that can measure your total body fat 1. This calculator uses Hodgdon-Beckett formula, which is used by U.S. If you want to feel fit and look fit make sure you have less body fat and more muscle mass.Īn estimate of the amount of body fat that you need to lose is the first step in any successful weight loss program. But having more than the required percentage of body fat can lead to serious health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart diseases. It is important to have a healthy amount of body fat to regulate body temperature, protect organs and stay energetic. This is due to the difference in the amount and distribution of fat they have in their body. Two persons of same height and weight may have the same Body Mass Index (BMI) but different body composition.

Sored body fat is the fat that is accumulated from the extra calories that are not burnt by the due to sedentary life style and lack of exercise. The percentage of essential body fat for women is greater than that for men, due to the demands of childbearing and other hormonal functions. Essential body fat is needed for life and reproductive functions.
