question bout bf% scales

[Lao Tzu]

nice link freag34, but i have a question for anyone about calipers. Doesn't your total body weight factor in with the bodyfat measurements? I weigh 290, and the bioelectrical methods always say 29% (the caliper method and that website said 23%). Doesn't the fact that i have about 60 lbs more lean body mass than a normal person make my BF % even lower?

 

[bigguns15]

IMO, the bioelectrical impedence machines are crap. It all depends on your hydration status. The more dehydrated you are, the "fatter" you will register on these machines.

 

[TimeaJr]

mine is unreliable too. hydration seems to be the major factor. i know i am bloated (damn deca) and so lately i have not even bothered paying attention to the % on the scale because it is so off. i had my calipers done and it was 6% points out from what the scale was saying! the accuracy is usually better than this but it does vary a lot. imho do calipers...save that cash for gear.

 

[pwr_machine]

Pretty much like everyone said, this method uses electrical conductivity to estimate fat-free mass. Water conducts electricity. Muscle holds the majority of water in the body. Since this test is dependent upon hydration status, it can skew the results of his bodyfat. I've seen reports of these being about
+/- 8 to 10 % off.


Calipers are your best bet and readily available.