*Men are considered borderline at 25% body fat and clinically obese at 30%, while women are borderline at 30% and clinically obese at 35% body fat.

**A lower body fat percentage for women increases chance of amenorrhea (cessation of menstruation).

Body Fat Scales

Another way to measure body fat is to use a Body Fat Analyzer .A Body Fat Analyzer measures body fat using Bio-electric Impedance Analysis (BIA). A very low power current is passed through the body, and makes an assessment based on the level of water content in the body (muscle holds a high water content whilst fat holds a low content).

Body Fat Scales are a better option for some people - particularly those that have a high body fat percentage. However others feel that they are less accurate than calipers. Very much a personal preference.

Body Fat Measurement - Is It Any Good?

Charting body fat is much better than body weight. Body weight does not take into account muscle mass. Unfortunately some weight loss programs result in loss of muscle mass - whilst the person still maintains the same level of body fat! (what you would call a "skinny fat" person).

Body fat is deposited in 3 places, under the skin (subcutaneous), around internal organs (internal fat), and fat inside muscle tissue (intramuscular fat). Skinfold calipers measure the subcutaneous fat, and from this, derive a body fat percentage.

Ideal Weight Loss

An ideal weight loss regimen would result on loss of fat while still maintaining ( or even building) more muscle. Muscle is metabolically active and burns calories just by sitting still!

Have a look at the weight loss program reviews for some options.