How do I measure my body fat? - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

Candyman · 01-04-2003, 02:58 PM

This might be a dumb questions I don't know, but I've read a few topics in this form and most of the people know how much body fat they have. How can I measure my own or do I have to go to a pro to do this for me? Also is Creatine liquide healthy for a 17 year old male to start using before his workouts? Thank You

bcbear51 · 01-07-2003, 01:23 AM

I suggest you have a professional test if you want to know precisely your body fat %. There are ways to do it on your own that you can find on the net, but they are always +/- 5% or so. You don't have to schedule a physical with your doc or anything (some doctors don't even include this in a physical unless you request it). Find a free health fair in your area. Body fat measuring is always a major attraction for them. They all use different machines and methods, but are all relatively accurate.

Merrida · 01-07-2003, 03:05 AM

There are "breathilizer" type hand-held devices which measure your metabolism so you can determine your caloric requirements, how many calories you'll burn, and how to effectively gauge your workouts and nutrition plans according to your body. These are best performed after evey 5 lb change in weight.

Impedence meters are a great source of measuring bodyfat because they take the human error factor out of the equation.

Calipers can be used but are highly subjective, even among professionals.

Infared is done, too, but it isn't all that accurate.

Depending on your age, sex, athletic background, ethnic background, activity level, - the formulas used to determine bodyfat are different.

Go to a personal trainer.

Many gyms and clubs offer free assessments with their membership programs, sometimes they'll run specials. Another option is to "check a club out" and while you're on trial see if you can hook up with a trainer to do your bodyfat comp.

Eri©TheViking · 01-07-2003, 11:33 AM

You can order calipers (that measure your fat-folds) online for about $17 to $20. One brand is called Accu-Measure.

As for creatine, well, there's plenty of debate over whether or not it's safe. Personally I'd focus more on making sure your diet and lifting routines are correct.

First off, what are your goals? If your goal is muscle gain, are you getting enough calories? Are you getting enough protein? Are you training hard enough and resting enough between workouts?

In my opinion, there a lot other variables you need to be doing correctly before even worrying about something like creatine.

H8CC · 01-07-2003, 04:45 PM

If you go with creatine then dont bother with the serums. Your better off going with a powder. I just read an article about the long term side affects of creatine, and it showed none. Ill try to dig it up.

H8CC