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Beyond body weight: how to measure body fat loss and body composition

While in the midst of a weight-loss regimen, it can difficult to determine whether all of your hard work is actually paying off. Weighing yourself on a scale doesn’t provide accurate answers, because body weight is only one measure of health — and it doesn’t show you how much body fat you have (or haven’t) lost. Plus, you may not actually lose weight if you’re reducing body fat but replacing it with muscle.

While you can look at yourself in the mirror and see positive changes — a tighter, slimmer, and more muscular body, for example — it can be hard to lose track of how far you’ve come without visual reminders. The best way to measure fat loss is to take measurements of your body, and then do a set of calculations using an online body fat calculator. Tracking your progress in this way can be a powerful motivator that allows you to see positive changes in your all-around body composition — even when the number on the scale isn’t budging.

In order to accurately track your body fat loss and changes in body composition, here’s what you need to do:

What you need

First off, you’ll need a measuring tape — the kind that’s flexible. Secondly, you’ll need a journal of sorts to record your measurements and progress. You can take notes on your phone, or you can use a cute journal that inspires you to track your measurements regularly. Next, you’ll need a friend to help you. It’s difficult to measure out-of-reach places (like your shoulders, for instance). You’ll also need a scale to measure your current weight.

What to measure

  • Current weight: Step on the scale and record the number in your journal.
  • Neck: With a straight spine and neck, use the tape measure to measure your neck circumference.
  • Upper arm: Relax your right arm. Use the tape measure to determine the circumference of your right arm just above the elbow — the place where your arm is the biggest. (You can choose to measure your left arm instead, but just make sure to use the same arm every time.)
  • Forearm: Measure the circumference of your arm just below the elbow.
  • Wrists: Measure around your right wrist.
  • Chest: Measure the circumference of your chest, just below the breasts.
  • Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust.
  • Shoulders: With both arms relaxing at your sides, have a friend measure around both shoulders.
  • Waist: Measure the circumference of your waist — just above your belly button is where you’ll find the narrowest spot.
  • Hips: Measure the circumference of your hips at the widest point, around the hip bones.
  • Quads: Stand tall and transfer most of your weight to your left foot. Now, measure your right quadricep — the circumference of the largest area of your upper leg muscle.
  • Calves: Shifting your weight to the left foot, measure the circumference of the largest area of your right calf muscle.

Next, you’re going to need an online body fat calculator. It will ask you to input several of your measurements — such as height, weight, waist, and hip circumference — and use that information to calculate your body fat mass and body fat percentage.

Let a month pass as you continue your weight-loss program. Take all the same measurements again, and compare your numbers. Use your body fat percentage results to determine if you are losing fat and increasing lean muscle mass. If and when you discover that you’re losing pounds of fat, then you’re on your way to success!

Track your progress with photographs

It’s also a good idea to take photos as you progress on your weight-loss journey. Seeing proof of your progress can be astonishing, and can serve as a huge motivator when you feel like nothing’s working or you’ve hit a weight-loss plateau. For the best results, take your photos in a well-lit area without any distracting elements in the background. Wear form-fitting clothing that shows your shape, and wear the same clothes each time if possible. You can take your own photos in a mirror or enlist a friend to help.

Start Your Transformation Today

Ready to take your weight-loss journey to the next level? Look beyond body weight and start measuring your body fat loss and overall body composition. Say goodbye to unreliable scales and hello to a more accurate way of tracking your progress. With a flexible measuring tape, a journal to record your measurements, and a friend to assist you, you’re all set. Measure key areas like your neck, arms, chest, waist, hips, and more. Then, use an online body fat calculator to calculate your body fat mass and percentage.

Keep track of your progress over time and witness the positive changes in your body composition. And don’t forget to capture your journey with progress photos as visual proof of your success. If you need guidance on your weight-loss goals, SmartFit is here to help. We offer personalized diet plans to help you look and feel your best. Contact us today for a FREE consultation and let’s achieve your goals together!

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