Understanding Body Weight versus Body Composition
Body Weight vs. Body Composition
The human body is made up of lots of different materials, or tissues. Each of these materials makes up a different "component" of the body and have unique functions and contributions to the total body weight.
Total body weight, we typically measured in pounds, is a sum of weight of each different components.
Components of body weight include bone, water, fat mass and muscle. Muscle include both skeletal muscle and organs. The comparison of the weights of various body components, or materials, is body composition. Instead of looking at total body weight, we can break body weight down and look at the weight from each of these components, reviewing body composition.
Body Mass Index (BMI), a different measure, is calculated using an individual's height and weight and does not provide any information about body composition.
Lean body mass refers to non-fat mass (e.g. skeletal muscle, organs), typically estimated in pounds. Body fat percentage is the percentage of total body weight that comes from fat mass; estimated using the “tape test” and other devices such as the BOD POD or InBody570.
Its important to understand these components of the body because each has a different role in body function (and Soldier performance) and each component changes for different reasons.
The notion of "losing weight," then needs to be more specific. If you do want to lose weight, break that down further: what type of mass do you want to lose?
The blanket goal of weight loss and changing total body weight, the number we see when we step on the scale, can result in losing muscle mass even if that's not the true goal.
Fortunately, the Patriot H2F team is designed to help Soldiers attain an optimal body composition for health and performance.*
Traditionally, people attribute body composition to just physical activity and nutrition, however, many other lifestyle factors can influence body composition changes.
Interested in Tracking Your Body Composition?
You can track your body fat percentage and pounds of skeletal muscle mass on the InBody570 Scale. This measurement can be performed every 4-6 weeks to assess progress and body adaptations. Its important to remember that the change overtime in body metrics is what provides the most information - not a single number or single measurement.
Call 337-718-2913 to schedule an InBody570.
Pre-test instructions for accurate results:
Avoid alcohol or caffeine 24 hours prior to testing
Avoid exercising 6-12 hours prior to testing
Do not eat 3-4 hours prior to testing
Avoid using lotion or ointment on your hands and feet
Use the bathroom prior to testing
If you will be menstruating during the time you scheduled your appointment, the results may inaccurate
Come to your appointment in APFU clothing (you will be asked to remove shoes, socks, jewelry, and belts)
Another body metric we recommended tracking for changes includes waist circumference. This can be performed during your InBody270 appointment or at home with a flexible tape measure. This measurement should be done once a week at most.
While body metrics are useful in tracking body adaptations, we recommend when goal setting focusing on performance goals --> in other words, what do you want to be capable of? Our team can help your get there!
"Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood."
Marie Curie