Bioelectrical impedance analysis measures the amount of time it takes an electric current to pass through your body. Because currents pass through water, fat and muscle at different speeds, the length of time the current takes to go through your body can tell you how much water, fat and muscle your body has. Because the predictive algorithms used by bioelectrical impedance devices are very sensitive, hydration plays an important role in accurate BIA readings. If you have been drinking a lot of water and are overhydrated, the device would give a falsely low reading of your body fat percentage. If, on the other hand, you are dehydrated or have just finished exercising, the device would give a falsely high reading of your body fat percentage.
Step 1
Take the test at least eight hours after exercising or sitting in a sauna, at least 12 hours after drinking alcohol and at least two hours after eating.
Step 2
Enter your personal information into the device. Both handheld devices and floor scale versions will ask your age, sex, height and weight. Many devices also ask you whether you are sedentary, lightly active or athletic.
Step 3
Grip the electrodes of a handheld BIA device with your arms straight out at a 90-degree angle from your body.
Step 4
Stand on the electrodes of a floor scale BIA device with bare feet and keep your arms slightly lifted away from your sides. On a BIA scale at home, you may prefer to test in the nude for the most accurate weight reading possible.
Step 5
Press the start button, if applicable, and remain still until the device has completed its assessment.
Step 6
Record the readings for water, muscle and body fat percentages and retest on sequential days, if possible, to establish the validity of your test and eliminate the possibility of a falsely high or low reading.
Things You'll Need
- Bioelectrical impedance analysis device
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