Accurate body-fat scales?

[Entity]

I'm seriously considering looking around in the market for a scale that includes a (reasonably) accurate body-fat estimator. I read about one recently in Men's Fitness, but I can't remember the model name - it was around $250, and included a whole bunch of options (supposed measure of basal caloric burn rate, etc.). I'm interested in a more objective measure of fitness than base weight, and don't want to have to go into the doctor to measure my BFP every time I'd like a measurement.

Any fitness gurus in here have a recommendation? I should add that I'm pretty sure it wasn't a Tanita, as I've heard generally negative things about those.

Rob

 

[Entity]

Anyone?

 

[Viper GTS]

Have you considered just getting calipers + a weight only scale?

Viper GTS

 

[nippyjun]

There is only so much that a scale can tell you. I personally have a Tanita for body fat measurements and I like it. The only way to know the accuracy would to have your body fat professionally measured then jump on the fat scale and compare the result.

 

[luv2chill]

I have a Tanita also, and I've found that it's real use is determining progress (rather than absolute indications of your BF% at any given point in time). No, they're not terribly accurate (very few methods are), but if you simply want to judge your progress towards reducing your BF% then the Tanitas (and equivalent brands) can be useful.

If you want an accurate BF measurement, pretty much your only option is underwater weighing. Most universities and hospitals can do it. It's a PITA, for sure. Calipers are definitely more accurate than any of the electrical induction units (a la Tanita).

If you do go the Tanita route, make sure you measure mid-day (not right after waking nor right before bed) and stay hydrated, as the amount of water in your body (and thus your muscles) definitely has an effect on the readings.

l2c

 

[Jfur]

does anyone know why these scales have to ask you gender in order to give a reading. I understand that the average female would have more bodyfat than the average male, but if the scale has to guess based on that it does not give me a lot of confidence in the results. If it were really just measuring I think that would be irrelevant.

 

[Viper GTS]

<< does anyone know why these scales have to ask you gender in order to give a reading. I understand that the average female would have more bodyfat than the average male, but if the scale has to guess based on that it does not give me a lot of confidence in the results. If it were really just measuring I think that would be irrelevant. >>



Body fat scales are the closest thing to artificial life we have yet - They have self preservation instincts. Guess too high on a girl & they're likely to get the sh!t beat outta them.

Viper GTS

 

[Sundog]

<< If you want an accurate BF measurement, pretty much your only option is underwater weighing. >>


Agreed.