Tanita scales

[RagingRandy]

Does anyone have experience with these scales that are supposed to measure BF? I went to see a trainer today and he measures among other things my BF%. The freakin thing says I am over 30% bf. I am not ripped but that can not be right. My electronic calipers have me at 18-19%.

[fathead]

they are garbage all the way. i wont bother to say more

[dainbramaged]

Did they measure your impedance? It's the marker used for your hydration level, so if the number was high (like 500+) then it can be an indication that when you got tested, you may have been dehydrated. If you use one of the machines, you should always get the test taken BEFORE you do any kind of workout (perspiration will cause you to lose water and salt, causing a worse reading with the tanita - since the measuring stick is a minute current). Of course, there are like 5 things (if I remember correctly) that you aren't supposed to do before the test. Like: make sure to empty bladder about 30min before test, avoid any caffeine/ephedrine like 12 hours before, etc.

Not sure of your status now, but I know (only from my experience using them) that guys taking AAS always seemed to get consistently high bf readings.

edit: Not sure if this is a moot point but keep in mind that the current the machine sends through is allegedly measuring you internally as well. Calipers only measure external/subcutaneous fat.

[Drifter]

If you get it done again , make sure you well hydrated like stated above .

[ergie]

2 words...... not accurate

[Drifter]

2 words...... not accurate


You dont like them ? I was going to buy one simular but it was a computer program but I had a digital caliper that I was using at the time and I liked that so I just kept with it .

[RagingRandy]

avoid any caffeine/ephedrine like 12 hours before, etc.

Umm so popping effies and caffeine 1 hour prior could have an affect. Good to know.

[ergie]

hmm ya they've probably changed, just realized I bought mine like 10 years ago.


You dont like them ? I was going to buy one simular but it was a computer program but I had a digital caliper that I was using at the time and I liked that so I just kept with it .

[dainbramaged]

Can't remember exactly but I think another thing was to not eat for like 8 (or 12?) hours before the test for accuracy...and I'm sure there were a couple more guidelines as well, just can't remember...?

[Ritch]

I had a boss who used to use on of those. It`s a lazy way to get a Bodyfat assesement. He got me on it and my BF was way high, or maybe I`m just delusional? Anyway just the fact you`re not supposed to have caffeine 12 hours before the test makes it unsutable for most.

The worst BF machine is the one you put your hands on the handles and just hold for 10 seconds. A guy I know who is skinny fat got an 8% reading.