Using a body composition monitor (BCM) in the gym can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to track their progress and make informed decisions about their fitness and health goals. In this blog post, we will know how BCMs work, their benefits, and how they can be used effectively in a gym setting.  

What is a Body Composition Monitor (BCM)?  

A body composition monitor is a device that measures various aspects of a person’s body composition. This includes body fat percentage, muscle mass, bone mass, and water content measurements. These measurements can be taken using a variety of methods, including bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and air displacement plethysmography (ADP).[1]  

Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis is the most commonly used method in Body Composition Monitors (BCMs). This technique involves passing a small electric current through the body and measuring the resistance to the current flow. Based on this information, fat tissue which has a higher resistance than muscle tissue, allows the BCM to estimate a person’s body fat percentage.[2]

Why Use a BCM in the Gym?  

There are several benefits to using a BCM in the gym, including:  

Tracking Progress: One of the main benefits of using a BCM in the gym is that it allows individuals to track their progress over time. By taking regular measurements of their body composition, they can see changes in their body fat percentage, muscle mass, and other metrics. This can help them to adjust their workouts and nutrition plan to meet their goals better.[3]  

Identifying Areas for Improvement: Another benefit of using a BCM in the gym is that it can help individuals identify areas where they need to improve. For example, if someone has a high body fat percentage, they may need to focus on losing fat through cardio and diet. Alternatively, someone with a low muscle mass may need to focus on strength training and consuming more protein.   

Setting Realistic Goals: A BCM can also help individuals to set realistic goals for their fitness and health. They can set achievable and realistic goals by understanding their current body composition. This helps keep them motivated and focused on their journey.  

Personalized Workout and Nutrition Plans: By knowing the percentage of body fat, muscle mass, and bone mass, individuals can create a plan tailored to their specific needs. For example, if a person has a high percentage of body fat, their nutrition plan may focus on reducing their calorie intake and increasing their protein intake.  

Avoiding Plateaus: Finally, using a BCM in the gym can help individuals avoid plateaus in their progress. Plateaus occur when the body becomes accustomed to a specific workout or nutrition plan, and progress slows or stops. By monitoring their body composition, individuals can adjust their plans to keep their progress moving forward.[4]  

Identifying Health Risks: Using a BCM can help identify health risks. For example, individuals with a high percentage of body fat are at a higher risk for health issues like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. By identifying these risks early on, individuals can reduce their risk through diet and exercise.[5]   

How to Use a BCM in the Gym  

Using a BCM in the gym can be a valuable tool, but it is important to use it effectively. Here are some tips for using a BCM in the gym:  

Choose the Right BCM: There are many different types of BCMs on the market, so it is crucial to choose one that is accurate and reliable. Look for a BCM that uses BIA or another reliable method of measurement.  

Take Regular Measurements: To track progress effectively, it is essential to take regular measurements of your body composition. This may be once a week, monthly, or another regular interval that works for you.  

Measure at the Same Time of Day: To ensure consistent measurements, measuring at the same time of day is important. For example, if you always measure in the morning before eating or drinking, you will get more consistent results.  

Use the Data to Make Informed Decisions: Once you have your body composition measurements, use them to make informed decisions about your workout and nutrition plan.  

Integrating BCMs in a gym environment can have several benefits, including increased engagement and retention of members and an effective tool for the trainer to provide a personalized service to help their clients achieve their fitness and health goals.  

The OMRON BCM HBF 702T is a highly accurate and reliable body composition monitor that provides quick and easy measurements, making it an excellent tool for weight management. Its 4-point full body sensing technology gives users a comprehensive understanding of their body composition, which can be used to personalize their diet and exercise routine for effective weight management.   

This popular model measures and displays nine essential body metrics: Weight, BMI, body fat percentage, segmental subcutaneous fat, segmental skeletal muscle, subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle percentage, resting metabolism, and visceral fat level.  

Wrap-Up:  

Incorporating BCMs in the gym environment can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to track their progress and make informed decisions about their fitness and health goals.  

Reference: 

1. https://omronhealthcare.com/the-importance-of-a-body-composition-monitor/  
2. https://journals.lww.com/ijmr/Fulltext/2018/48050/Body_composition_techniques.19.aspx  
3. https://www.omronbrandshop.com/health-and-lifestyle/benefits-of-body-composition-monitors/  
4. https://gymplus.ie/what-is-a-body-composition-monitor-and-why-you-should-start-using-one/  
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28824817/