How to calculate fat percentage
The percentage of body fat is an important indicator of a person’s health and physical form. Knowing how to correctly calculate the percentage of fat can help set realistic weight loss goals, monitor progress and evaluate health risks.
What is percentage of body fat?
The percentage of body fat is the amount of fat in relation to the total weight of the body. It is different from body weight, which includes not only fat but also muscles, bones, water and other tissues.
Having a healthy level of body fat is important for overall health. Excessive body fat can increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other health conditions.
How to calculate the percentage of body fat?
There are several ways to calculate the percentage of body fat. Here are some of the most common:
- Skin fold measurement: This method involves measuring the thickness of fat folds in various parts of the body, such as arms, abdomen and thighs. These measures are then inserted in a formula to estimate the percentage of body fat.
- Bioelectric impedance: This method uses a special scale that sends a smooth electric current by the body to measure electrical resistance. Based on this resistance, the scale can estimate the percentage of body fat.
- Computed tomography: This method is more accurate, but also more expensive. It uses x -rays to measure the amount of fat in different parts of the body.
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and accuracy can vary. It is important to remember that these estimates are only approximations and that the percentage of body fat can vary from person to person.
Why calculate the percentage of body fat?
Calculating the percentage of body fat can be useful for several reasons:
- Establishing realistic weight loss goals: Knowing your current body fat percentage can help set realistic weight loss goals.
- Monitoring Progress: Measuring the percentage of body fat regularly can help to accompany progress over time.
- Evaluating health risks: Having a percentage of very high or very low body fat can increase the risk of certain diseases and health conditions.
It is important to remember that the percentage of body fat is just an indicator and should not be used as the sole criterion for evaluating health. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a complete assessment.
Conclusion
Calculating body fat percentage can be useful for setting weight loss goals, monitoring progress and evaluating health risks. There are several ways to calculate the percentage of body fat, but it is important to remember that these estimates are only approximations and that the percentage of body fat can vary from person to person.
Consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended to get a complete health and physical form assessment.