Body composition, what is it and why does it matter when evaluating fitness? I'll answer these questions in today's simple truth fitness minute (STFM).

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Body fat percentage is superior to body mass index (BMI) for assessing your weight health. BMI is a quick-math calculation, based only on height and weight, that determines whether someone is normal-weight, overweight, obese or morbidly obese. It's good to know your BMI but it's even better to know your body-fat percentage.

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You could be at a "normal" weight but still be too fat due to the loss of muscle (sarcopenia), which is another STFM here --> http://bit.ly/2m38f3f Or you could be considered "overweight" by BMI but actually have a very healthy body fat. Ultimately? IT'S YOUR BODY FAT THAT MATTERS.

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In another Simple Truth Fitness minute I discuss BMI here --> http://bit.ly/2lY8Jra

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In a different STFM I'll discuss the best ways to get your body fat tested but I'll at least mention them here: DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is THE gold standard. Second best would be BIA (bio-electrical impedance analysis) but only the kind that has you standing barefoot on a scale AND holding onto sensors with your hands - BOTH.

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You can search for DXA scan locations here --> http://bit.ly/2Jup8fO and for a good BIA test start with InBody here --> http://bit.ly/2PB4rmz