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Personal scales: Consumer tips
Instead of guessing your weight on an analogue scale, you can read it accurately from an electronic scale. Nowadays, it’s not just about body weight, but a more precise analysis of body composition. These scales can be programmed, and the results can be evaluated if needed. Which personal scale will become the new favourite?
The functionality of modern personal scales
In most cases, a modern personal scale is a flat device made of milk glass or solid plastic, with a display embedded on the front. Inside the device, micro-batteries or button cells provide the power supply. Where once a pointer climbed to the right, numbers now appear on the small screen. This makes guessing your own weight unnecessary. You receive a concrete display of your body weight. It is still important to weigh yourself at a consistent time of day. The best time is in the morning, preferably right after getting up. It is best to stand on the scale in your underwear or naked. This is especially important if it is a special analysis scale that measures additional values.
Body fat scales inform about training progress
Body fat scales from Beurer or Tanita are special electronic personal scales. They not only determine weight with a division of 100 grams but also measure body fat content. The measurement is done via elongated or round metal surfaces on the top of the scale. If you want the most accurate result, you should stand on the device barefoot. As soon as your feet touch the metal surfaces and the measurement begins, the diodes conduct a weak alternating current from one foot to the other. This process is called bioelectrical impedance analysis. Fat conducts electricity worse than muscle mass. Therefore, the resistance is higher in fat tissue. After the measurement, the display alternately shows body weight and body fat percentage.
BMI, body fat percentage, muscle mass: Further analysis options of personal scales
Using resistance measurement, some personal scales can also determine the proportion of muscle mass. The body muscle percentage (KMA) and the body fat percentage (KFA) are related to each other. To carry out the measurements, you must specify your gender and height. To also calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI), the scale requires your age. Additionally, you can specify your general activity level, which is considered as a coefficient in the calculation. This way, you get an overview of your current fitness level within a few moments. To allow other family members to use the scale for analysis in addition to weighing, the devices are often equipped with multiple memory slots.
Smartly evaluate weight and body values
Some smart personal scales not only measure weight and other values. They are equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing you to evaluate the values on your smartphone afterwards. With software and fitness apps, you can evaluate and monitor the results online. This is practical if you want not only to lose weight but also to increase your muscle mass.
Tips for buying a personal scale
- Electronic scales are more accurate than mechanical scales with a pointer
- Body analysis scales are more expensive but provide further information
- Most devices can support a maximum weight of 150 kilograms
