How do you find you BF%

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JenSpinnaChick
JenSpinnaChick Posts: 104 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
I keep seeing references to BF% and I'm looking for someone to explain this to me, please and thank you!!!!

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  • Turtlejogger
    Turtlejogger Posts: 4 Member
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    There are a number of ways to get your body fat percentage. The most accurate is not easy (hydrostatic weighing--i.e. getting yourself dunked in a pool and weighed wet and dry). The most common is body fat calipers. You can have someone do this at a fitness center, or buy some and do it yourself. They are cheap, but many people complain about accuracy because HOW and WHERE you pinch the fat greatly changes the readings. Some people use body fat composition scales--they are finicky and some people complain about accuracy. You have to follow the directions perfectly and realize taking a shower before you weigh will goof everything up.

    I go to Medifast and use their body composition scale. It is EXCELLENT, but costs about $5,000. If you opt for home version of the body fat composition scale, get one that sends the signal not only through your feet, but also through your hands. It will be more accurate.

    Good luck!
  • bizco
    bizco Posts: 1,949 Member
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    Body Fat %.

    In very general terms, your total weight is made up of fat, muscle and bones. BF% is what portion of your total weight is fat.
  • JohnMessmer
    JohnMessmer Posts: 536
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    http://www.fitnessfrog.com/calculators/lbm-calculator.html

    This is a great site, lots of calculators to find everything, lol
  • margojr4
    margojr4 Posts: 259 Member
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    Body Fat %.

    In very general terms, your total weight is made up of fat, muscle and bones. BF% is what portion of your total weight is fat.

    This. Online calculators are not accurate. Have your doctor or trainer measure with body fat calipers. The best and most accurate body fat test is under water.

    http://sportsmedicine.about.com/od/fitnessevalandassessment/g/UnderwaterWeigh.htm
  • JohnMessmer
    JohnMessmer Posts: 536
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    Online calculators are not accurate. Have your doctor or trainer measure with body fat calipers. The best and most accurate body fat test is under water.

    True, they are a "general" rule and not specifically accurate, but then again neither is any other method. Here is an interesting piece written about the inaccuracies of all methods.
    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/757632-interesting-piece-on-the-inaccuracy-of-body-fat-measures


    Do Nothing and Regret it Later or Do Something and Enjoy it Later, Your Future Is In Your Hands
  • omanitshann
    omanitshann Posts: 179
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    There really is no accurate way to measure it, and knowing it is pointless. All you need to worry about is what you see in the mirror and who you feel
  • nukehiker
    nukehiker Posts: 457
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    you can also get a fairly accurate reading by going to a fitness center that has a bod pod
  • PrincessLou71186
    PrincessLou71186 Posts: 747 Member
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    I use an Omron Body Fat Monitor - BF306. It may not be 100% accurate but it leaves little room for error like calipers do and I can do it at home.
  • Hayesgang
    Hayesgang Posts: 624
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    I do the BodPod every 3 months~I find knowing my BF% it to be very valuable information and really keeps me on track.

    Which ever method you choose, stick with that one and you will be able to gauge your progress.
  • WendyTerry420
    WendyTerry420 Posts: 13,274 Member
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    http://www.fitnessfrog.com/calculators/lbm-calculator.html

    This is a great site, lots of calculators to find everything, lol

    Here is another one:
    http://www.scientificpsychic.com/fitness/diet.html

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