Body composition tests determine the proportion of fat, protein, water, and tissue in a person’s body. High levels of fat increase health risks. Common tests include body mass index, waist circumference, and skinfold measurements, but accuracy can be affected by body frame size.
A body composition test refers to any method used to determine the proportion of fat, protein, water, and tissue within a person’s body. The main purpose of these tests is to look at the amount of fat in the body compared to other forms of matter. High levels of fat put a person at greater risk of many health problems and a lower quality of life than those who have body fat levels within a healthy range. There are several methods currently used to determine body composition, the most common being body mass index, waist circumference measurements, and skinfold measurements.
Body mass index is a type of body composition test that is used by doctors, nutritionists, and individuals to determine how high the risk of some health problems may be. To perform this test, a person must multiply their weight in pounds by 703. That number must be divided by their height in inches, and the resulting number must also be divided by their height in inches. If the final number is less than 25, this indicates a healthy body composition. Numbers above 30 indicate a serious problem with weight and fat levels and the possibility of health problems later in life.
Although flawed, the body mass index is currently one of the most accurate ways to determine body composition in terms of health. Things that can make the test inaccurate include those with especially large body frames, meaning they have wider hips and broader shoulders than average. If the body mass index is ruled out for these or other reasons, another body composition test may be used.
Another commonly used body composition test requires a person’s waist to be measured and then compared to their hips. There is no set number for a person’s waist or hips, but the waist should be much smaller in proportion to the hips. If not, this indicates a high level of abdominal fat. Fat around the middle of the body is considered much more dangerous than fat that accumulates around the hips and thighs. This is mainly because most of the vital organs are located in the torso, and excess fat can lead to fatty organs.
Skin fold measurements are another type of body composition test that can be performed, although this is generally less accurate in terms of predicting health than the previous two tests. This test is done with a device that pinches fat in a specific part of the body, often the arms, to measure it. Although this is useful for determining which areas of the body may need more exercise and strength training, it is not accurate for determining how fat or healthy one is. For example, someone may have fatty thighs or arms but still be within their goal weight or have very little belly fat.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
