Accuracy of Tanita scale for body fat%?

VanderTuig1976
VanderTuig1976 Posts: 145 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi,

I've been working with a personal trainer for a few months and have regular progress checks where I am weighed and measurements and body fat % are taken. Body fat % is taken with a handheld device (I grip it w/both hands and it shoots out a number). At my last progress check (about 2 weeks ago), I was at 25% body fat (37 y/o female, 144 lbs., 5'8). Anyhow, at work today I had the opportunity to get my weight, body fat, and other measures taken on the Tanita scale. The scale was dead on accurate as far as actual body weight but way off on body fat % reading I've been getting at the gym - it had me at 18%! Now I know that isn't correct but, given the Tanita scale's accuracy on my pounds, I am now questioning the accuracy of the handheld device is that my trainer uses. If the difference between the two readings was 2-3%, I'd go with the higher reading and move on, but 7% is a pretty significant variation, in my opinion.

Anyone have any opinions or experience with the Tanita scale?

Replies

  • IsaackGMOON
    IsaackGMOON Posts: 3,358 Member
    The readings can change depending on the volume of water the tissues in your body are holding.

    You see, a small electrical pulse is sent through your body and that's how the body fact percentage is measured; but water can change this too!

    Tell your personal trainer that you don't think the device is as accurate as body fat calipers, and see if you can use a pair of those.

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