Hydrostatic weighing, also known as underwater weighing or hydrodensitometry, is a safe and non-invasive way to assess your body fat percentage and muscle mass. This technique is relatively inexpensive and can be done at many hospitals, universities, and research centers. Here's what you need to know to find a hydrostatic weighing test near you and what to expect during the test.
Where to Get a Hydrostatic Weighting Test Near Me
If you are interested in hydrostatic testing, there are a few ways to find a facility near you. First, you can check with your local hospital, gym, university, or research center to see if they offer this great service. Another option is to search online. This can be done by searching for "hydrostatic testing near me" or "body composition testing near me." Finally, you can check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the test. Many insurance providers will cover this service if it is considered medically necessary. For insurance to cover it you will likely need a doctor's referral.
What to Expect During the Test
Hydrostatic body fat testing is typically done in a hospital, university, or research setting. The test will be conducted by trained personnel, such as a registered dietitian, exercise physiologist, or nurse. First, you will be weighed on land. Then, you will be asked to exhale all the air from your lungs and take a deep breath. After taking a deep breath, you will be submerged in water while sitting on a special scale. Your testing administrator will instruct you to completely submerge underwater while sitting on the chair and to breathe out fully. You will repeat the test three times. The administrator will use the average result of the three tests to calculate your body fat percentage.
How Is Hydrostatic Weighing Accurate?
Hydrostatic weighing is considered to be one of the most accurate methods for determining body fat mass. However, some potential sources of error can affect the accuracy of this technique. When performed properly, it can be accurate to +/- 1.5% according to NCBI. For example, the water temperature can affect the density of the body and, as a result, the hydrostatic test results. To account for this, a hydrostatic test is typically done in a temperature-controlled environment. Additionally, the amount of air that is trapped in the lungs can also affect the results. For this reason, it is important to exhale all the air from the lungs before being weighed underwater.
What Are the Benefits of Hydrostatic Weighing?
Hydrostatic body fat testing is a safe and non-invasive way to assess fat mass. This technique can be used to track changes in your body over time, which can be helpful for people who are trying to lose weight or gain muscle mass. Additionally, this is one of the most accurate methods for determining body composition. This technique can be used to assess the success of weight loss or muscle-building programs. Some consider this the gold standard.
Conclusion
Hydrostatic weighing is a reliable and widely accepted method for measuring body composition. With a little planning, you can find a facility near you to get a hydrostatic weighing test and gain valuable insights into your body composition.
