Skinfold calipers measure the thickness of your subcutaneous fat the fat underneath the skin at certain body locations. The body fat index is not an indicator of fitness level since the calculation is made with no regard. Measurements are taken at either 3 or 7 different sites on the body. Use the metric units tab if you are more comfortable with the international system of units si. Body composition is one of the best indicators of overall health. The number of sites depend on the formula and can range from an approximate single bicep measurement to as many as 9 sites which provide an accurate measurement of body composition.
The body fat calculator can be used to estimate your total body fat based on specific measurements. This type of body fat has a percentage measure of 10 13 of body mass for women and 2 5 of body mass for men. Because the bod pod is highly accurate it can detect even small changes in body fat and lean body mass ie muscle bones and organs. Well talk about the healthy range for men and women and the limitations. The more sites used the more accurate the total body fat estimate. A basic way to measure body fat percentage is by using a soft tape measure like the kind youd use for sewing to record measurements of different parts of the body.
Such scales work with the help of sensors underneath. Body fat scales are easy to use. Your body uses essential body fat to function properly this type of fat helps regulate body temperature provides cushion for the internal organs and provides you with energy during illness. Determine your body fat percentage with our body fat calculator. To get the best results measure to the nearest 14 inch 05 cm. Then input your gender and measurements below to receive a body fat index based on average values.
3 however that is just the minimum amount. Quick convenient accurate what are the benefits of bod pod body composition measurement. For your body to function properly it needs a minimum amount of essential fat. According to various sources the minimum limit of body fat is around 2 5 for men 2 and 10 13 for women. Use a tape measure to determine your waist wrist hip and forearm circumference. You simply step on the scale and the tool measures both your body weight and your estimated fat percentage.
Body composition is calculated by measuring subcutaneous fat thickness at multiple sites. The average adult male body fat percentage should be between 18 and 25. Calculating body fat percentage isnt always completely accurate and there are many methods to try.