Personal Training With Lisa

How do you measure weight loss?

There are many different ways to measure weight loss from very complicated ways only a medical professional can administate to weighing yourself on a scale.  Today I’m going to list the ones I prefer and are the easiest to access.

1. Bioelectrical impedance analysis.  BIA is a commonly used method for estimating body fat.   BIA is considered one of the most reliable and accessible methods of screening body fat.  BIA measures the impedance or resistance to the signal as it travels through the water that is found in muscle and fat.  This analysis can tell you body fat %, water %, how much muscle you have on your body and your weight. You can find this equipment in fitness centers and medical offices.

2.  By how your clothes fit.  I know there is no number for this way, but it is a good indicator if you are losing weight or gaining weight.

3.  Take measurements via a measuring tape.  Take measurements at specific spots on the body every 4 weeks to see how many inches you are losing.  This is a great way to see fat loss.  The video below shows you how to take your measurements.

4.  A Scale.  A scale can tell you how much you weigh but it doesn’t tell you anything else.  It can’t tell you what your body fat % is, it can’t tell you how much muscle you have and it can’t tell you if you have lost inches or not.

How to take your body measurements

As you can see there are many ways to track your weight-loss.  The best method would be the Bioelectrical impedance analysis.  If your gym does not have one then stick with taking your body measurements.  Every 4 weeks you can see how many inches you are losing, plus if you are gaining lean muscle you will be able to see that.