How to tell BF%

**Sparky_dustin** · 02-13-2007, 01:33 PM

I bought a digital scale that reads %BF (kinda) but I'm not really sure how accurate it really is because it says I'm 27%BF but I'm gonna call bull**** on that one. Is there a more accurate way to tell bf%.

**Freak** · 02-13-2007, 02:06 PM

If you still look like you do in the avatar there is not way 27% is correct. Use calipers. If you are lucky enough to live in an area with a bodpod definitely go there. It is more accurate than calipers.

You have to scroll to the bottom of the page for locations in Canada:

BODPOD

**Sparky_dustin** · 02-13-2007, 02:09 PM

actually the pic in my avatar is a little old I'm a bit bigger and a bit leaner. Do you know where you can purchase a set of calipers?

bstan2180 · 02-13-2007, 03:31 PM

I use a regular caliper but was told by someone that they usually measure about 3-5% low. Can anyone confirm?

primeval · 02-13-2007, 03:53 PM

As a personal trainer I do bodyfat tests all the time. We use either the bio-electrical impedance (like the scale mentioned) or calipers depending on various factors. The caliper method has a margin of error (low or high) of 3-5%, bio-electrical impedance is a bit higher but can be thrown off by individuals that are below 5% bodyfat or that have a large amount of muscle. I tell clients not to get too caught up in the number, it is mostly useful for measuring change and making sure your routine is yielding proper results.

As mentioned above, the bodpod or water displacement (usually found in universities with an exercise science department) are the most accurate method if you absolutely have to know the exact level.

**Sparky_dustin** · 02-13-2007, 03:57 PM

I will have to get a set of calipers because unfortunatly the only bodpods are located in Eastern Canada

monkeybiker · 02-14-2007, 02:15 PM

Don't you need to be trained on how to use the caliper.

zod · 02-14-2007, 04:37 PM

they are all bull****s.

the bf value is not that important. if you are lean, or shredded or cut.. that you can observe.

**Sparky_dustin** · 02-14-2007, 04:45 PM

True, it's not really important to my training or my progress I was just curious what I am actually at.

KEN777 · 02-14-2007, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sparky_dustin

actually the pic in my avatar is a little old I'm a bit bigger and a bit leaner. Do you know where you can purchase a set of calipers?

:pwned: you look pretty lean in this "old pic"

If I looked that good I would put my pic on my avitar...

trying to get there

**Sparky_dustin** · 02-14-2007, 05:16 PM

thank you, but like a lot of people I'm not happy yet. I've got a lot of work to do, especially on my arms.

primeval · 02-14-2007, 06:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zod

they are all bull****s.

the bf value is not that important. if you are lean, or shredded or cut.. that you can observe.

In a sense, you are right, and I said the same above - the number itself is not that important. But many people lose weight and lose lean muscle in the process - tracking changes in BF% is a good way to monitor this and avoid it by making necessary adjustments to ensure loss of fat without losing hard-earned muscle.