Do gym weighing scales give inaccurate readings?

misshoneyz2dab

I've been told that they do. How true is it?

vespiquenn

There are way too many factors to say for sure. Essentially, the important part is whatever scale you use, stick with it. All scales are going to have a margin of error, and it becomes very apparent if you try two different scales (like a home scale versus a scale at the doctor's).

If you truly are concerned about accuracy, you can grab something that you know the weight of, like a 10lb barbell, and weigh that to test for accuracy.

earlnabby

misshoneyz2dab wrote: »

I've been told that they do. How true is it?

I don't trust them but it really depends on the brand and type of scale.

Azdak

Why would anyone make a general statement about "gym scales". It's not like that's a separate model or anything. Do people think there is some organized conspiracy among "gym owners" to rig scale readings for some nefarious purpose?

If "gym scales" are inaccurate, it is because of one or more of the following:

1. They bought a cheap scale that is wearing out, or wasn't accurate to start.
2. They bought a mechanical scale but never bother to maintain it.
3. Members abuse it like they do most other things and constantly break it.

The locker room scales in our center are often off because of #3. But we have a precisely calibrated scale at our fitness desk.

sijomial

At least in a gym environment you have the ability to test the accuracy - I don't keep a stack of weights in my bathroom.