body fat percentage?

[astral37]

hi,

this is probably a really simple question but I haven't been able to find the answer to it. I always hear people talking about their body fat percentage...20%...10% etc..but how exactly do you figure out what your body fat percentage is? Thanks!

 

[Arnold]

the most common method is bodyfat calipers.

AccuMeasure are one of the most popular brands.

 

[astral37]

where to buy

hi thanks for the info. i found it for sale at bodytrends.com - do you happen to know if this is a good online store to buy from, or is there another one you would recommend?

 

[Arnold]

I just searched Google and found the lowest price, but I cannot remember the site I bought them from.

 

[Comedown7]

Yes, calipers are probably as reliable as you can get in terms of an 'at home' test.

If you want to just judge using the 'mirror test' here is a VERY general guide:

Contest bodybuilders are at about 3.5 - 4%
Ab definition begins to show around 12%

Again, this is incredibly vague - and it does not take into account localize fat storage, but it should give you a rough idea.

Also, ask at your gym if they have any sort of body fat test. Most likely they will have something much less accurate than calipers, but it should give you an idea.

 

[Mudge]

Just avoid the digital calipers, supposedly they dont measure for sheet, which is interesting.