Fitness enthusiasts everywhere know how frustrating it can be to step on the scale and see the same numbers week after week. However, those figures aren’t reliable indicators of the changes that may be already happening in your body. Seeing results that are visible to the naked eye takes time, but that doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.
Despite popular belief, our body mass index (BMI) isn’t an accurate indicator of good health. Some people can have a high body fat percentage (BFP) and still have what’s considered a “normal weight.” There are different ways you can measure your BFP, from skinfold calipers to the Eros Scale, and in the following sections, we’ll discuss the most convenient ones.
What Is Body Fat Percentage?
While the body fat percentage is often confused with the body mass index, the two terms are not interchangeable. The former refers to the amount of fat you have compared to your lean tissue, while the latter is a value derived from one’s weight and height and is not as precise.
Determining your BFP can help estimate the risk of potential diseases, such as diabetes and various cardiovascular conditions. Of course, optimal values depend on your gender and age. For instance, it’s perfectly normal for women to have higher values than men, as some studies indicate that estrogen impacts their ability to burn fat after eating. Below, we’ll cover the most basic ways to calculate BFP.
Body Circumference
The first method is probably the most basic one — using body shape to estimate body fat percentage. You need to measure the circumference of certain body parts to get an approximate figure of your BFP. For instance, for men, we would use measurements of the waist and the neck, while for women, we would also include hip circumference.
The upside is that you only need a measuring tape to get the calculations. However, the downside is that the findings may be inaccurate. Namely, everyone has a different body shape and fat distribution, so you’ll be better off using something more reliable, such as a smart body composition scale.
Skinfold Measurements
Skinfold calipers have been in use for decades. Specifically, they measure how thick your subcutaneous fat (the fat under your skin) is at three or seven different spots on your body — primarily, the chest, thighs, and abs. These calipers pinch the skin and separate the fat from your muscles. The remaining fold indicates your body fat percentage.
Skinfold calipers may be affordable, but the accuracy of the measurements depends on the person taking them. Also, if you are overweight, it might be more difficult to get the correct reading. This method is more suitable if you’re already on a workout regime and are just trying to monitor your body fat.
How to Measure Body Fat With a Smart Scale
While the previous two methods might be affordable, the results they’ll give you are not as reliable. Although there are many alternatives, such as 3D body scans and multicompartment models, they are quite expensive and often unavailable to the general public. The perfect compromise between accuracy and affordability is the so-called smart scale with body fat metrics.
In today’s world, we are surrounded by technology that makes our lives easier and more efficient. The fitness industry is no exception to this, with the rise of smart devices that help us track and improve our physical health. INEVIFIT’s Eros Smart Scales are a prime example of this technology, offering advanced features that go beyond the capabilities of traditional scales.
The Eros Smart Scales utilize bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) technology to provide users with accurate metrics. This method measures how the body reacts to small electric currents, allowing for precise readings of body composition. The built-in electrodes send painless signals through the body, analyzing the flow of the current for accurate readings. This means that users can easily track their progress and make adjustments to their exercise and diet plans accordingly.
But what sets the Eros Smart Scales apart is their ability to measure 13 different key metrics, including subcutaneous fat, skeletal muscle, bone mass, and more. With these measurements, users can gain a comprehensive understanding of their body composition and track their progress in a more detailed manner. Plus, with the ability to connect the scale to a free app, users can have their readings readily available on their mobile device.
One of the greatest benefits of the Eros Smart Scales is their high level of accuracy. All of the results will be within +/-3% of the DEXA scan results standard, meaning users can rely on their readings as a trustworthy source of information. This is especially important for those who are serious about their fitness journey and want to ensure that they are making progress in the right direction.
When it comes to tracking your fitness progress, a smart body fat scale can be an incredibly useful tool. Not only can it give you a better understanding of your body composition, but it can also help you make informed decisions about your diet and exercise routine. With the Eros Smart Scale, you can easily monitor 13 different key metrics and keep track of your progress over time. Plus, the built-in BIA technology ensures that your readings are accurate and reliable. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting out on your journey, the Eros Smart Scale is a great investment in your health and wellness. Browse our website, read about our products, and get in touch today!