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Body Fat %
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Skin Caliper
Method: 
The skin
caliper method pinches the skin and shows the number of millimeters of
underlying fat. For accuracy, these measurements are usually taken at 4 or more
points on the body, and the results are fed into one of several formulas.
For simplicity, the AccuMeasure requires you to only take
one measurement at the suprailiac skin fold (on the abdomen).
Accumeasure then has a chart that converts the millimeters of
fat into your body fat percentage.
While imperfect, using the
Accumeasure can give you a fairly reliable and reproducible number (within a margin of
error). The more you practice with it to get consistent, the better your readings will
be. This is the easiest and most convenient way to check your body fat percentage at
home.
The AccuMeasure measures up to 60 mm
of fat. The thinner the skinfold, the more reliable your reading will
be.
Adding the MyoTape allows you to
easily take circumference measurements. >>>>>>>
click here
Home Body Fat Monitors (BIA)Bioelectrical
impedance analysis
Home body fat scales are another easy way to
determine your body fat percentage. These send a weak electrical current thru the
body to measure its impedance or resistance.
click
here
Fat has a different level of impedance than
muscle, bone and other tissues. The devices that you step on measure the lower half of
the body; and the hand held models measure the upper half of the body.
Omron's full body sensor and body composition monitor
combines both your upper and lower halves to get a more accurate estimation of your body fat
percentage. This Omron unit has 4 sensors for the feet plus 2 sensors in a
hand held portion.
Studies show that the Omron unit does tend to overestimate body fat. However, when used
to evaluate progress in your fitness program, it will give you a good indication of your
progress as you see the trend toward lower and lower body fat measurements.
Because the level of your hydration can influence results, it is
best to take your readings at the same time of day, preferably just after you get up in the
morning, before you eat or drink and after voiding. Results will vary depending on
your hydration levels. Women's results will also vary with their menstrual cycle
and water retention.
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SupraIliac SkinFold Measured with an AccuMeasure
Home Body Fat
Monitor
Warning: The Omron Body
Fat Monitor uses a small
electrical current.
Do Not Use a BIA -
a Bioelectrical impedance
analysis monitor if you:
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Have a Cardiac Pacemaker
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Or if you are Pregnant
Ask you doctor if bioelectrical impedance
analysis is ok for you.
Body Fat Percentage
Methods:
1. Skin Calipers
2. BIA Monitors
3. Circumference Formulas
4. Underwater Weighing
5. DEXA
6. Bod Pod
To lower your body fat percentage, increase your lean
muscle mass with
resistance training.
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