When you are trying to stay fit, a body fat monitor can be a valuable tool. There are many different types and brands of body fat monitors; however, so it is good to know what to search for before you begin shopping for a body fat monitor.
The best way to attack the matter is by creating a list of the different features that are available and then comparing the different options online. Many shopping and rating sites, like Wize.com, offer a a lot of information that can assist you in the shopping process. This method will assist you to decide on the best monitor for your specific situation. Below is a list of things that should be taken into consideration when buying a body fat monitor:
Types of Body Fat Monitors
There are basically two main kinds of body fat monitors:
Skinfold Caliper Method-This is the most traditional type of body fat monitor. It takes a small pinch of your skin at three distinct points on your body and then computes the fat percentage. Electronic calipers are available which provide the advantage of sensing the perfect pressure and then executing the calculations for you. An additional feature is data storage; which can be helpful when used by multiple users.
Bioelectrical Impedence Analysis (BIA)-This is the most sophisticated type of body fat monitor. This type of monitor will actually send a small electrical charge through your feet or hands and analyse the data that is retrieved in order to quantify your body fat reading. The unit will need some data such as your age, weight and gender to provide the true calculation. It is important to know that individuals with a pacemaker can not use this type of monitor due to the electrical charge.
Features
When you consider a BIA monitor, there are different features which are now available such as a memory feature so that you do not have to input basic data each time you use the monitor. Also, you may wish to look for a unit that has an athletic body setting to make sure you get an accurate measurement if you are an athlete with either a high muscle mass or low body fat. Also, be aware that if you need to do body fat measurements on a child, you will need to find a model with a child specific reading as adult readings are not precise for children. Visit Wize.com to get an idea of which brands offer specific features.
Research and Shopping Sites
The perfect place to begin shopping for a body fat monitor is online. This gives you the advantage of being able to check out different models and then narrow down the list of choices.
Once you have decided exactly what you are wanting to get, go back to the store so you can get a feel for which model is most comfortable and easiest to use. Make a note of the price given at the store and then go back online to get the best price.
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