Assessment of body fat percentage and its impact on athletic performance.
Fat Mass – Evaluation and Use in Physical Preparation
1. Definition
Fat mass (FM) represents all adipose tissues in the body. It is a key component of body composition, alongside lean mass (muscles, bones, water, organs).
2. Why Evaluate Fat Mass?
Fitness Tracking: Monitoring physical condition and body changes.
Planning: Assisting in nutritional and training programming.
Prevention: Reducing injury risks and joint overload.
Performance Optimization: Aligning fat percentage with specific sports demands.
Early Warning: Detecting potential risk situations (excess or deficiency).
3. Assessment Methods
Method
Description
Skinfold Calipers (Plicométrie)
Most common field method; uses a caliper on 3 to 9 sites.
Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA)
Measures electrical resistance; quick but sensitive to hydration.
DEXA Scan
Laboratory gold standard; very precise but costly.
Others
Hydrostatic weighing, Bod Pod (air displacement).
4. General Standards (Indicative)
Category
Men (%)
Women (%)
Elite Athlete
6 – 13%
14 – 20%
Amateur Athlete
14 – 17%
21 – 25%
General Average
18 – 24%
26 – 31%
Overweight
> 25%
> 32%
5. Interpretation and Follow-up
Track trends over time rather than isolated values.
Correlate results with performance, total weight, and muscle mass.
Adopt a holistic approach including diet and recovery.
6. Common Errors
Relying solely on BMI (fails to distinguish muscle from fat).
Comparing inconsistent measurement methods.
Failing to standardize measurement conditions (time of day, hydration).
7. Recommendations
Measure while fasting, at the same time, using the same protocol.
Use the same method consistently for accurate comparison.
Evaluate based on global functionality rather than just a percentage.