I’ve never been a big fan of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for body composition assessments, particularly for athletes. Jeff Stout and his colleagues at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln produced several studies years ago that revealed the BIA procedure was flawed in assessing body fat levels in lean, muscular people.
Even compared to a basic 3-site skinfold test, BIA couldn’t remain consistent or accurate.
A recent body composition study utilized bioelectrical impedance analysis on bodybuilders and powerlifters and failed to perform as accurately as a traditional 5-site skinfold assessment.
For an accurate, economical body fat assessment stick with the skinfold caliper test done by an experienced, certified trainer at your local gym.
