LaraStar's Journal, 10 Nov 11

Caliper test is the most common I believe- the trainers at some gyms with do them although I don't know if mine does. The best way is an immersion test but that's pretty high-end stuff. It's my understanding that if the person knows what they're doing, calipers can be pretty accurate. 

Thanks Nat, I think I know someone who's got calipers. Will give it a go. I wouldn't know where to get an immersion test. 

Know what you mean LaraStar - when I did mine by measurement, about 6 weeks ago, they came out between 18% - 48% !?!? My scales say 40% - 41%, when I had it done at the gym, (had it done 3 times), I always took my BF reading on my scales, before I went, so that could compare - there was a couple off % difference... So I figure my scales are pretty accurate. At the gym they put sensors on left foot and wrist, this will only measure the left half of your body. If you have stand on scales, I only measures the bottom half of your body. So if you carry weight on your bum and legs it will be higher. Gnat is right - the water immersion is "the" mos reliable way - also a DEXA scan.... Both need to be done by professionals and are pretty expensive. I think your scales will give you an idea on whether you are going up or down, as long as you weigh at the same time of day. You also shouldn't do it after bathing, or exercise, as it distorts the reading. I always do it first thing in the morning - although tha isn't ideal as it throws the water % out (cause you will dehydrate slightly, as your not drinking while asleep) 

At least it's coming down. If slowly! And I am pear shaped so the reading is probably slightly out. Nevermind, I keep going! 

I have heard that as long as you use the same method and use it to measure progress all methods will give a reasonably reliable "difference" between two measurements. So if measuring with tape measure say you are down 2% then the scale will also say you are down 2% etc. FOr actual correct fat% DEXA scan is the best (also most expensive) followed by immersion tank, and then there is a lot of differing opinions on scales/calipers/tape measure+calculator... 

You're doing great, Lara! Impressive  

Thank you all. I will continue to use my scales and the tape measure and I will keep you posted about my progress. 

Love the new bio pic, Lara. Don't you look beautiful. well done, girl. 

Thanks Heather, you are very kind.