Determining body fat percentage involves quantifying the proportion of fat mass to lean body mass within an individual’s physique. For instance, a person with a body fat percentage of 20% has 20% of their body weight composed of fat tissue, while the remaining 80% constitutes muscle, bone, and other essential components.
Measuring body fat percentage is crucial for assessing overall health and fitness progress. Individuals with higher body fat percentages may face increased risks for chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. Additionally, body fat distribution plays a role in determining hormonal balance and metabolic function. Historically, underwater weighing was a commonly used method for measuring body fat, but advancements have led to various contemporary techniques, including bioelectrical impedance analysis, skin calipers, and air displacement plethysmography.