The ideal body fat percentage of each of us it depends on many factors, such as age, gender, level of sports activity, diet, etc.
No number represents a complete picture of individual health; how we treat our bodies and minds is often a better indicator of health and wellness than actual body fat percentage.
However, we live in an age where doctors and professional athletes must use graphs, data and specific measurements in order to have an accurate standard of body fat and that is why it is important to know your fat percentage!
Let's find out the methods to find it and calculate it!
Index
How to calculate body fat?
When it comes to measuring body fat percentage, some of the most commonly used methods are quite expensive and not very accurate; among these we find:
- dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
- air displacement plethysmography
- 3D body scanner.
There are also less invasive, but not very reliable methods such as:
- BMI (or BMI): body mass index; takes into account the total weight, without taking into account the muscle mass
- bioimpedance: this device works by sending an electrical impulse through the body, which can reveal the amount of fluid under the skin
- adipometer: Measurements can be taken from 3 points on the body (basic measurement), to 9 points on the body (precise measurement); the more points you measure, the more accurate your results will be
- hydrostatic weighing: it is the best and most accurate method, but not widely used because it is expensive and difficult to perform. It consists in immersing oneself in a tub of water and registering the weight contained in it; this method takes into account variables such as bone density and air in the body.
What is plicometry?
Most of us don't have access to the techniques listed above, that's why, instead, theUsing calipers to measure body fat, or body fat, is very popular and used!
Plicometry is based on the principle that there is a relationship between subcutaneous fat tissue and body mass in how the depth of certain folds in the skin is measured.
With this non-invasive method it is possible find out your body fat percentage, but it is always good to rely on a professional for this calculation.
If you plan to use plyometrics several times to check your body fat level, it is a good idea to have the measurements taken by the same person each time to ensure better validity and reliability of the results.
Other methods of calculating body fat percentage
If you are unable to consult a physician or certified personal trainer for skin fat percentage calculations, there are some methods housewives to monitor it!
Body circumference measurements and body fat scales using bioelectrical impedance are both self-performing methods; While they aren't as accurate as skinfold measurement, these methods have some merit and can be a useful do-it-yourself tool for tracking progress.
And you, have you ever used any of these methods to measure your body fat percentage? Let us know in the comments and remember to follow us on our telegram channel
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