BF %

The wise master trainer at my MMA club has both calipers and hand helds, we used both for a few weeks to make sure we got an accurate reading. It was pretty consistent within a percent or two. I got an Aria (Fitbit) scale and it's dead on accurate. I recommend getting one. You can get just the scale... doesn't have to be with the Fitbit. Hope that helps

I've used both calipers (had a friend who's a trainer do it since there's a bunch of points to do and it's difficult to do alone) and a scale. The key is to do it the same (same method, same time when possible, same points, same helper, etc) each time. Also, I found doing it before a workout is more accurate than after a workout. Also, as mentioned before, depends on the formula used (if using calipers) as to what result you'll get.

Bod Pod or Dexa scan is the most accurate, but like PP posters have said, using less accurate methods (hand helds, scales) and measuring consistently and seeing a downward trend works too. I have heard that scales that measure body fat via bio-electrical impedance only measure the body fat in your lower half (cannot remember where I read this, I believe on BB.com), as the electrical current only travels up one leg and down the other so it's really only accurate for your lower half. Same theory goes for hand held devices (goes through one arm and out the other). Just something to keep in mind. All methods are guesses, so the important thing is to control variables (hydration, time of day, caliper spots, etc) and watch for a downward trend.

Bod Pod or Dexa scan is the most accurate, but like PP posters have said, using less accurate methods (hand helds, scales) and measuring consistently and seeing a downward trend works too. I have heard that scales that measure body fat via bio-electrical impedance only measure the body fat in your lower half (cannot remember where I read this, I believe on BB.com), as the electrical current only travels up one leg and down the other so it's really only accurate for your lower half. Same theory goes for hand held devices (goes through one arm and out the other). Just something to keep in mind. All methods are guesses, so the important thing is to control variables (hydration, time of day, caliper spots, etc) and watch for a downward trend.

I was never sure if that was right, that the electronic scales measured only through the legs while the handhelds measured only through the arms, but it seemed to make sense, and it always kind of bothered me. Then I found a scale that measures from four points: through your hands and feet. It's more expensive than most scales, but still only about half the price of one of those Fitbit/ Aria scales:

http://www.amazon.com/Omron-HBF-514C-Composition-Sensing-Monitor/dp/B0020MMCDE/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1399657485&sr=8-10&keywords=body+fat+scale

There are hydrostatic body compostion testing mobile units. check with your local crossfit gym. This is THE stndard for BF% testing and only cost 40 -50 dollars to get tested. This is really the only accurate method available

Do a google search for Bod Pod locations. I've used the Bod Pod before at a local university, and judging from the reviews online, it seems to be a very accurate and less expensive alternative to the pricier methods. I've also tried the calipers and BIA scales, but find the Bod Pod to be the most consistent over multiple uses.