DF: Scales Lie

There have been a number of discussions lately in the personal trainer circles I run in about clients stepping on the scale and hating the numbers. Scales Lie.

Yes, the scale provides you an answer. No, it is not the answer to the question you are asking. It is telling you exactly (depending on calibration) how much the muscles, fat, bones, mucous, water, etc. in your body weighs standing on the surface of the Earth at that precise moment. If you were standing on Mars, it would tell you something different; seriously. And, in 5 minutes? Who knows. As water is 1 pound per pint, if you haven't peed since you drank two glasses...you see where this is going, right?

The question you are asking yourself is, "Am I fat?" or "How is my body doing?" The answer you are getting is 42.

Ok. So, now that we have sorted that out. Promise me you will no longer use the scale for this. The scale will give you one piece of information in a Body Composition Analysis - and that is a starting point to subtract other items to get your lean muscle mass. PLEASE quit asking the scale questions it can't answer.

Now. What can answer those burning questions about fat and body composition? Well, the best answer is a full BCA. If you don't want to shell out for one, (I promise you it is worth it.) then at least buy yourself a set of calipers and a soft tape measure. Learn to use the calipers and write down your fat % and your measurements for your neck, arms forearms, chest (below the breasts ladies), waist, hips, thighs, calves. (Just use the right side of your body.) Pick one day of the week. Pick one time. Complete this every week at said time on said day. This will tell you how your body is adapting to any exercise you are (or are not) doing. Oh, and if you must climb on the scale, take the caliper percent body fat, subtract it from 100, and multiply the answer by your total mass to get your lean muscle mass. Yes, this includes bone too, but you have to feed those cells as well. ;)

Or, just sign up for a BCA today. The initial one includes the calipers and tape measure - and your first 4 weekly updates. After that each four week segment is a follow-up at a lower price.

To kicking the scale habit...