should I be concerned? - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

lunachick03 · 08-17-2004, 02:35 PM

I had my body fat measured recently and the trainer at my gym said that my body fat percentage was really low ( 10%). He really didn't elaborate after that so I'm not sure if 10% is something to be concerned about. I'm a runner and I love it! I don't want to stop but I don't want to jeopardize my health either. I would really appreciate your input.

mklyon · 08-17-2004, 04:05 PM

I would personally Love to only be 10%. From what little I know/read , 5% for men and 12% for women is low numbers to be considered safe. If your fat percentage gets too low it could effect your female cycle. If everything is working fine my opion is that 10% is okay, but I would not activitly try to lower it below 10.

Naxis · 08-17-2004, 05:00 PM

Definitely agreed. That is quite low for a female, but not really dangerously so. As long as you're getting proper nutrition and staying at about that level, you'll be fine.

fawn512 · 08-18-2004, 11:40 PM

are u f or m? I would not go that low. coz it may interfere with ur hormones and you might stop menstruating because of it

aquagirl007 · 08-19-2004, 08:51 AM

Healthy body fat for women is 12%-24%. You have to remember that there can be a 4-7% margin of error depending on what type of test you had done (caliper v. scale). If you are an elite athlete (runner) it is quite possible to have a lower body fat percent and still be healthy. Make sure you are eating enough to keep your weight in balance and do not try to lose any more weight, but you can keep up with your running -- it is good for you. If you start to have problems with heat production, menstruation, thinning hair, etc. you should see your doctor and attempt to gain a little more wieght. You don't really need to worry (as an elite athlete) unless you body fat falls below 7% (women).