Body composition is the amount of body fat and lean body weight that makes up your body. Body composition is one of five fitness components that determine your fitness level. This component is assessed by measuring the percentage of your body weight that is made up of body fat. This body fat is considered storage fat that accumulates in the fatty tissues that protect your internal organs and are deposited under your skin. Optimal body fat percentages range from 8 percent to 15 percent for men and 18 percent to 25 percent for women. Various methods assess body fat percentage.
Skinfold Measurements
Skinfold measurements use a skinfold caliper to measure the amount of body fat that is stored under your skin. Assessments consist of pre-determined sites to measure. Measurement sites include the chest, front of abdomen, hip, tricep, back and thigh. The sum of the sites are calculated and compared with one of many available equations using age to determine the estimated body fat percentage. This test is valid and reliable when the measurements are taken correctly. The only expense is the purchase of a skinfold caliper, which is a one-time expense. Skinfolds are taken on the right side before exercise for the best results.
Bioelectrical Impedence
Bioelectrical Impedence uses electric impulses sent through your body to measure body density. This measurement is combined with age, gender, height and weight to determine body fat percentage and lean body mass. A computer software program is used to calculate the percentage from the data using standard equations. Electrodes are placed on the hand and foot while the subject lies still. This assessment is easy to administer. Costs vary based on the quality of the equipment. Results may vary based on the subject's hydration level.
Hydrostatic Weighing
Hydrostatic weighing is also referred to as underwater weighing. This assessment requires the subject to be submerged in a tank of water. The subject's body density is measured by the amount of displaced water. This method is extremely accurate when the subject performs the test correctly. This requires the subject to exhale air from the lungs while underwater, which can be difficult. This assessment is considered impractical due to expense, time and equipment.
Considerations
There is a difference between being overweight and being over fat. It is possible to be overweight with a low percentage of body fat. In this case, weight loss may not be necessary. Additional weight may be due to increased muscle mass. This would not be considered a health risk. There is also a chance that an underweight person could have high percentage of body fat. A body fat percentage above 30 percent is considered to be obese and poses a health threat.
References
- "Keep Moving! Fitness Through Aerobics And Step"; Esther Pryor, & Minda Goodman Kraines; 2000
- "Personal Training Manual"; American Council on Exercise; 1991
- "Health/Fitness Instructor's Handbook"; Edward T. Howley & B. Don Franks; 1986
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