Body weight is just one of the many numbers that can help you keep track of your health and fitness levels. A more accurate number, however, is your body fat percentage. A 220-lb. person who is pure muscle will not look the same (or feel the same) as a person who weighs 220 lbs. of mostly fat. Body-fat scales allow you to keep track of not only your weight but also your body fat, so you can make sure that you're losing the right kind of weight.
BF-683W Body Fat / Body Water Monitor
Tanita is one of the original body fat scale makers on the market. The company produces a number of scales, including personal, professional and mini scales, with prices starting as low as $60. The BF-683W is a popular model because it shows the percentage of body fat and water in the body, and shows where you should be for optimal energy and peak performance based on your weight, height and sex. The scale has a maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs.
The scale has a memory for up to four people, each with their own unique profile and settings. It also stores the last 10 readings, so you can compare where you are and track your progress. The scale can be used in Normal or Athlete mode. The Athlete mode is designed for those who do a lot of weight training and have a high percentage of muscle mass. As of May 2010, the BF-683W retails for about $80.
Taylor 5599 440-lb. Tempered Glass Body Fat-Body Water Scale
Taylor makes some of the cheapest body fat scales available. Taylor's scales are slick and modern, made completely of clear glass but still able to support up to 440 lbs. The Taylor 5599 has a large readout, making it easier to see the numbers while still on the scale.
The scale is somewhat simpler than more expensive models, so there's no extensive memory to save previous readings, and you can't create several profiles. Still, the scale is an accurate way to measure body fat and body water percentage. The scale sells for about $35.
Biggest Loser 5568BL Body Fat-Body Water Scale
The Biggest Loser Scale has a couple of features not available in other body fat analyzers. For example, the scale shows the amount of calories you need to consume in a day to maintain your current weight. Reduce that number, and you will lose weight. The scale also calculates your BMI, or Body Mass Index, which is the relationship between your weight and height.
The large display makes it easier for those with vision problems or those who are too obese to see the numbers without problems. The scale is accurate to 330 lbs. Eight memory spots make it easier to save personal data to check and compare later on. The scale also comes with a special free offer--with no time limits--for the Biggest Loser meal plan meals. The scale retails for $35 and up.
Member Comments