TomTom Touch Manuel Du Propriétaire
38
Two techniques that do not assess body fat percentage but that can be useful are BMI and waist
circumference. BMI is used to assess weight relative to height and is calculated by dividing weight
in kilograms (kg) by height in meters squared (kg m-2). A BMI of 25 or higher is classified as
overweight, while a BMI of 30 or greater is classified as obese. While BMI may give an individual a
general idea of increased risk for obesity-related health problems, it fails to distinguish the
composition of that weight. The measurement of waist circumference provides insight into
increased risk of obesity-related illness due to the location of excess fat. Waist circumference can
be measured by placing a cloth tape measure around the smallest part of the waist while standing
relaxed. Waist circumference should be at or below 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women.
Android obesity, classified as excess weight located in the trunk area, places an individual at
greater risk for high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol,
coronary artery disease, and premature death.
circumference. BMI is used to assess weight relative to height and is calculated by dividing weight
in kilograms (kg) by height in meters squared (kg m-2). A BMI of 25 or higher is classified as
overweight, while a BMI of 30 or greater is classified as obese. While BMI may give an individual a
general idea of increased risk for obesity-related health problems, it fails to distinguish the
composition of that weight. The measurement of waist circumference provides insight into
increased risk of obesity-related illness due to the location of excess fat. Waist circumference can
be measured by placing a cloth tape measure around the smallest part of the waist while standing
relaxed. Waist circumference should be at or below 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women.
Android obesity, classified as excess weight located in the trunk area, places an individual at
greater risk for high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol,
coronary artery disease, and premature death.
Body fat percentage can be estimated via many techniques, some simple, while others are more
complex. This article describes three common techniques you may encounter: skinfold measure-
ments, BOD POD measurements, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Percent body fat can
be estimated by using calipers to measure skinfold thickness at various body sites on the body. The
sum of the skinfolds taken at various sites can then be converted to calculate percent body fat.
This technique is fairly quick and can be accurate. However, it is important to find a trained
technician to make the measurements. If the measurements are not taken correctly or an incorrect
formula is applied, erroneous values can result. A fairly new and “high-tech” approach to
assessment of body composition is the BOD POD. These fiberglass units are designed to measure
body weight and body volume (i.e. the body’s total size). Because fat is less dense than lean tissue,
the weight-to-volume ratio can be used to predict percent body fat. Another technique that is
frequently used in fitness facilities is BIA. The principle behind this technique is that fat contains
little water; most of the body’s water is in the lean compartment. Therefore, when an electrical
current encounters fat there is more resistance. By measuring how easily currents move through
the body, body fat can be estimated.
complex. This article describes three common techniques you may encounter: skinfold measure-
ments, BOD POD measurements, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Percent body fat can
be estimated by using calipers to measure skinfold thickness at various body sites on the body. The
sum of the skinfolds taken at various sites can then be converted to calculate percent body fat.
This technique is fairly quick and can be accurate. However, it is important to find a trained
technician to make the measurements. If the measurements are not taken correctly or an incorrect
formula is applied, erroneous values can result. A fairly new and “high-tech” approach to
assessment of body composition is the BOD POD. These fiberglass units are designed to measure
body weight and body volume (i.e. the body’s total size). Because fat is less dense than lean tissue,
the weight-to-volume ratio can be used to predict percent body fat. Another technique that is
frequently used in fitness facilities is BIA. The principle behind this technique is that fat contains
little water; most of the body’s water is in the lean compartment. Therefore, when an electrical
current encounters fat there is more resistance. By measuring how easily currents move through
the body, body fat can be estimated.
Calculation of percent body fat through any of these techniques is best done by a trained health
and fitness professional. These individuals will not only be able to make accurate assessments but
will also be able to explain the results to you. Check with your local fitness facility to see what
methods of assessment are available to you.
and fitness professional. These individuals will not only be able to make accurate assessments but
will also be able to explain the results to you. Check with your local fitness facility to see what
methods of assessment are available to you.
What can you do with your results? The results from your body composition assessment can be used
to identify risks, personalize your exercise program, or evaluate how well your current exercise
and nutrition program is working for you. If you find that you are within a healthy range, continue
your exercise and dietary behaviors. If you find that your body composition has room for
improvement, take a closer look at what you can do to make positive changes to your current level
of activity and diet. Use more than just the scale to assess body composition. Remember, it is
possible for the number on the scale to remain constant yet to experience changes in fat mass and
lean mass. Changes in body composition take time and a dedicated effort, but the positive impact
on health and quality of life is worth the effort. Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity
along with a healthy balanced diet are the key to reaching and maintaining a healthy body
composition.
to identify risks, personalize your exercise program, or evaluate how well your current exercise
and nutrition program is working for you. If you find that you are within a healthy range, continue
your exercise and dietary behaviors. If you find that your body composition has room for
improvement, take a closer look at what you can do to make positive changes to your current level
of activity and diet. Use more than just the scale to assess body composition. Remember, it is
possible for the number on the scale to remain constant yet to experience changes in fat mass and
lean mass. Changes in body composition take time and a dedicated effort, but the positive impact
on health and quality of life is worth the effort. Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity
along with a healthy balanced diet are the key to reaching and maintaining a healthy body
composition.
ACE Body Composition Percentage Chart
This body fat percentage chart is from the American Council on Exercise.
Note: This table provides generic estimates and guidelines. Consult your physician for guidelines
that fit you.
that fit you.
IDEAL BODY FAT PERCENTAGE CHART (American Council on Exercise)
Description
Description
Men
Women
Essential fat
2-5%
10-13%
Athletes
6-13%
14-20%