The Best Fitness Scales

Fitness scales help you analyze aspects of your overall fitness, such as your weight and sometimes more advanced metrics like your body mass index. Scales can also be an important component of a healthy lifestyle, with the "International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity" reporting that people who regularly weigh themselves are more likely to lose weight and maintain their weight loss. If you're having a hard time choosing which fitness scale to buy, independent organizations and health experts have identified some of the best models on the market.

Taylor 7506

The Taylor scale was ranked as the best overall fitness scale by "Consumer Reports" magazine, thanks in part to exceptionally high rates of accuracy that outperformed the other 10 scales the magazine reviewed. It runs off of a lithium battery and can hold up to 300 lbs. of weight on its tempered glass, with the results displayed on a large 1.5 inch liquid crystal display that makes it easy to read.

Lifesource Wireless Precision Scale UC-324THW

The Good Housekeeping Research Institute tested 20 scales under $200 and recommends Lifesource's model. Although it was one of the more expensive models the institute reviewed, they thought it was worth the price. Features include the ability to measure and save both your weight and your body mass index, as well as the ability to wirelessly sync with your computer so you can log your health indicators over time.

Tanita Solar Digital Scale HS-302

Tanita's scale has numerous recommendations, from both "Consumer Reports" magazine and "Good Housekeeping" magazine (Reference 3) and the United Kingdom's "The Independent." The latter loved its toe-tap activation for hands-free activation, as well as the manufacturer's decision to build the scale out of biodegradable plastic. The internal battery gets its power from artificial light and sunlight for long-lasting, environmentally-friendly energy.

Weight Watchers Glass Memory Precision Electronic Scale WW43

This electronic scale comes endorsed by the Weight Watchers weight-loss program. It also earned praise from "Good Housekeeping" and "Women's Health" magazine. The latter magazine liked its internal memory that allows up to four people to use the scale and retain personalized weight readout histories. Other features include a backlit display screen and a leveler system that helps keep the scale balanced for more accurate measurements.