Handheld body fat monitors measure body fat by a process called bioelectrical impedance analysis or bia. Results from portable body fat analyzers can vary depending on many factors however including the quality of the device and how hydrated you are when the measurement is taken. 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. If youre concerned about your body fat percentage skip the commercially available body fat analyzers and ask your doctor about the use of more accurate measurement techniques. According to the american college of sports medicine bia measures body fat with the same accuracy as skin fold calipers trailing only hydrostatic weighing for accuracy. These are used extensively at fitness centers for quick body fat measurements but some people like them for home use as well.

Similarly a faster speed indicates less resistance and a lower body fat percent. You simply step on the scale and the tool measures both your body weight and your estimated fat percentage. Very star trek i know the device detects the amount of fat based on the speed at which the signal travels. A 2012 study in the international journal of obesity found that 29 of people who were normal weight actually had a body fat percentage in the obese range. Such scales work with the help of sensors underneath. Handheld body fat monitors use the same principle as a body fat scale to calculate your numbers but instead of standing on the device you hold it in your hands.

Because it takes different amounts of time for the signal to pass through fat muscle bone and water the time it takes it to move from one side of your body to the other can be used to estimate body fat. Body fat scales are easy to use. Here are the 10 best ways to measure your body fat percentage. No need to remove shoes. Focusing on body fat percentage instead of weight is much more useful to track fat loss progress. The bia works by sending a small harmless electrical signal throughout the body.

A slower traveling signal usually indicates a higher body fat percent.

Gallery of Body Fat Measurement Device How Does It Work