Bioimpedence analysis (BIA) uses the resistance of electrical flow through the body to estimate fat, hydration levels, basal metabolic rate and cell health. It is a safe, inexpensive, quick and non-invasive indication of health.

The amount of fat in your body is far more important to your physical well being than your actual body weight. Your bathroom scale won't tell you whether or not your body contains too much fat.

It is quite possible for a well-muscled individual to be classified as overweight based on standard height/weight charts. This could be as a result of his muscularity, since muscle is denser than fat. In reality, he or she could have a low level of fat with excellent body composition (the proportion of muscle to fat in the body). Conversely, many people who weigh in at the ideal weight may have too much fat on their body, and too little muscle - in effect, a poor body composition. Therefore, it is important to have a true measurement of your body composition and to maintain a healthy and balanced body status.

Lean body mass and healthy cells are extremely important, especially to athletes; they provide the foundation for optimal performance. Research has shown that body composition correlates directly to a continuum of health, ranging from mortality and morbidity to immunity, longevity, high function and athletic performance.

The purpose of body composition analysis is to assess and improve function. Analysis of fat-free mass and body cell mass compartments can help maintain function, productivity, immunity, physical performance, and longevity.

From the test results we can determine what action needs to be taken to improve health. For instance, if weight-loss is necessary we can develop a series of exercises, calculate the amount of kilocalories these will burn and incorporate them into an individual’s diet program. The number of weeks to achieve goal weight is automatically determined by the device. Bioimpedence body composition analysis is fantastic for tracking changes in weight-loss and ensuring that vital lean body mass and adequate levels of hydration are maintained.

At go.figure.fitness we use the Bodystat® QuadScan 4000. This is an advanced, top-of-the-range BIA device measuring/calculating:

• Allow yourself 10 minutes to sit down before the test and drink a glass of water.
• Empty your bladder before the test.
• All metal jewellery should be removed.
• Avoid exercise or other activity that would make you sweat at least 8 hours before your test. This is important to get accurate body fluid results.
• Avoid caffeine or alcohol for 12 hours before the test.
• Go to the bathroom before the test to get rid of any waste products. If you have diarrhoea, it is important to tell your consultant, as diarrhoea can affect your body fluid results.
• Your height and weight will be measured. Since an accurate weight is important, remember to empty out your pockets, remove your shoes and any other heavy clothing.
• You will be asked to remove your right shoe and sock and lie down on a table.
• Two electrodes will be placed on your right hand and two more on your right foot. If you have a lot of hair in these areas, you may feel some discomfort when the pads are removed.
• Once the leads are hooked up to the electrodes, the test only takes a few seconds.