Ways To Measure

If weight is a poor signal, what tracks body composition better?

• DEXA scan: the gold standard, using low-dose X-rays to separate fat, muscle, and bone with high accuracy
• Bioelectrical impedance scales: convenient at home but easily thrown off by how hydrated you are
• Skinfold calipers: cheap and reasonably accurate in trained hands
• Waist-to-hip ratio: a tape-measure test that flags health risk better than weight alone.