Shopping For a Body Fat Monitor
When you are trying to stay fit, a body fat monitor can be a valuable tool. There are many different kinds and brands of body fat monitors; however, so it is good to know what to look for before you start shopping for a body fat monitor.
The best way to attack the matter is by making a list of the different features that are available and then begin 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 buying process. This method will assist you to pick the best monitor for your specific situation. Below is a list of things that should be taken into consideration when purchasing a body fat monitor:
Types of Body Fat Monitors
There are basically two main kinds of body fat monitors:
Bioelectrical Impedence Analysis (BIA)-This is the most advanced kind of body fat monitor. This kind of monitor will actually send a small electrical charge through your feet or hands and use the data that is retrieved in order to gauge your body fat reading. The unit will require some basic such as your age, weight and gender to provide the right calculation. Be mindful that individuals with a pacemaker should not use this type of monitor because of the electrical charge.
Skinfold Caliper Method-This is the most traditional type of body fat monitor. It takes a small pinch of your skin at three different points on your body and then computes the fat percentage. Electronic calipers are available which give the advantage of sensing the perfect pressure and then doing the calculations for you. Another feature that is available is data storage; which can be crucial when used by multiple users.
Features
When considering a BIA monitor, there are different features that are now available like a memory feature so that you do not have to input basic data each time you use the monitor. Also, you may want to look for a unit that has an athletic body setting to make sure you get an accurate measurement if you are an athlete that has 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 have to find a model with a child specific reading as adult readings are not exact for children. Visit Wize.com to get an idea of which brands offer which features.
Research and Shopping Sites
The best place to begin shopping for a body fat monitor is online. This offers you the advantage of being able to look at different models and then narrow down the list of choices.
Once you have picked exactly what you want to buy, 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 offered at the store and then go back online to look for the best price.
