Body Fat Scale
The easiest way to measure body fat is with the new high tech scales now available. The body fat scale gives you your weight and also your body fat percent. It's use is similar to a common bathroom scale. Do read the instructions to get the best results with these fine instruments.
Body Fat Percent
When you measure body fat you are really measuring you body fat percentage. This is what percent of you is fat, versus lean tissue, which is muscle plus bone, organs, skin, etc. A fitness range is considered to be 12-18% body fat for men and 17-25% for women. Over 25% for men and over 30% for women is considered obese. Very low body fat is only advantageous for certain athletes, like bodybuilders and distance runners, and can be dangerous for women.
Body Fat Measurement
There are several methods of measuring body fat. Some are used only in research settings. Of the others, the most accurate body fat caculator is underwater weighing, but the equipment is bulky and expensive, and not widely available. The most common techniques used in gyms, sportsmedicine facilities, and health fairs are body fat calipers and bielectrical impedance devices. Recently, home-use devices have become available so you can measure your own body fat. These include body fat calipers and body fat scales.
Reducing Body Fat
So how do you reduce your body fat? You need to exercise and eat a balanced diet. Weight lifting exercise builds muscle, which increases the percent of lean tissue, and aerobic exercise burns som extra body fat. Do both and eat right and you can improve your body fat percent. Don't expect it to happen overnight, though.
Body Fat Calipers
Body fat calipers measure skinfolds. You grab the layer of fat everybody has some of under their skin, and measure it at certain places on the body. These have been scientifically determined and are cross referenced in a chart that gives percentage of body fat. Follow the instructions that come with the body fat calipers instrument.