This method is made possible because a relationship exists between subcutaneous fat and the total amount of body fat3 thus you can estimate total body fat by measuring the fat under the skin. Your body fat measurement can depend on many factors such as the devices quality and how hydrated you are when you have the measurement.
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The Best Ways To Measure Body Fat Shape
Body fat measurement device how does it work. As for accuracy a handheld bia device has about a 35 5 margin of error. Various types of body fat analyzers also called impedance meters are available to the general public. The handheld machines sometimes used to measure body fat rely on bioelectrical impedance which estimates your body fat using a painless electrical signal thats sent through your body. This body fat measurement test works similar to that of a scale except it doesnt measure your weight. A small unnoticeable electrical current is sent from one foot up one leg and down the other leg. For example this method does not measure visceral fat.
There are sensors on either side of the device that measure your body fat as you hold the. Results from portable body fat analyzers can vary though. A slower traveling signal usually indicates a higher body fat percent. While this method can yield good results when done properly it has several drawbacks. Similarly a faster speed indicates less resistance and a lower body fat percent. Fat is a poor conductor of electricity compared to other components of the body such as muscle.
The device detects the amount of fat based on the speed at which the signal travels. Body fat scales use a technology called bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure body fat.