Body Composition Testing
Several times throughout the semester, UREC personal trainers offer free body composition testing to patrons. Body composition testing is a great way to set a baseline and keep track of your progress as you advance through your program.
Summer 2008 Dates:
- Monday 5/5 --6:30-7:30am
- Wednesday 5/7 --6:00-7:30pm
- Monday 6/2 --6:30-7:30am
- Wednesday 6/4 --5:30-7:00pm
- Monday 7/1 --6:30-7:30am
- Monday 7/1 --5:30-7:00pm
- Monday 8/4 --7:00-8:00am
- Tuesday 8/5 --5:30-7:00pm
Understanding Body Composition
Body composition can be divided into two components: lean (fat-free) mass and fat mass. Lean body mass represents the weight of your muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and internal organs and is more dense than fat. Body fat consists of essential fat and storage fat. Essential fat is necessary for normal bodily functioning and is naturally higher in women. Storage fat is located around internal organs and directly beneath the skin (subcutaneous). It provides bodily protection and serves as an insulator to conserve body heat.
Measuring Body Fat and Lean Mass
Several methods of measuring body composition have been developed. At UREC you have a choice between two methods: skinfold testing and bio-electrical impedance analysis (BIA).
The skinfold method uses calipers to measure the thickness of skinfolds, giving a measurement of fat stored just under the skin. Measurements should not be done immediately after exercise as this increases water to the skin and can influence the results.
The BIA (bio-electrical impedance analysis) method is an easier and faster method of measuring body fat where a safe, low-level electrical signal is sent through the body. It is best to take BIA body composition readings at a consistent time of day and under similar conditions each time.
The Importance of of Monitoring Body Fat
Standing on the scale or simply looking in a mirror is not the best way to judge body fat, nor is either method a reliable way to rate the effectiveness of lifestyle changes if you are trying to lose weight. By regularly monitoring body fat using either the skinfold or BIA method, you can have a better picture of your true body composition.