9 Most Common Questions About InBody Devices (Updated 2024)
Looking for an InBody body composition analyser but still have questions?
Despite being around for over 25 years, there’s still a lot of confusion and misinformation around InBody devices.
So, here at the Peak Athletics, we’ve put together a list of the top 9 most common questions about InBody machines so you can fully understand what it’s all about. Enjoy!
We regularly update this page but if you have any burning questions that are not answered here, send us an email or give us a call.
Enjoy!
What is an InBody scan?
An InBody scan is a non-invasive body composition analysis that provides detailed insights into various components of your body, including muscle mass, body fat percentage, lean body mass, and visceral fat. It uses advanced technology to measure bioelectrical impedance and provide accurate and reliable results.
How does InBody technology differ from other body composition analysers?
- InBody machines feature a multi-frequency to measure impedance compared to single-frequency used by many BIA devices. Studies show that a combination of low and high frequency (multi-frequency) provides a higher level of precision.
- 8 Point Tactile Electrode System: InBody scanners use an eight-point tactile electrode system to measure body composition. This ensures consistent measurements every time.
- Direct Segmental Measurement (DSM): While traditional BIA brands measure the body as a whole, InBody devices go a step further. They separately measure the impedance of each body segment: your arms, legs, and trunk. This segmental approach means you get far more accurate results and reveals which areas need improvement.
- No Empirical Estimations: Many BIA devices rely on empirical estimations based on generalised assumptions (like age, gender, ethnicity, etc.) to calculate body composition. In contrast, InBody machines only rely on the direct measurement of your body composition, regardless of your gender, age, etc. This is by far the most accurate and personalised way to do it.
What are the benefits of an InBody scan?
InBody scans offer numerous benefits, including:
- Comprehensive assessment of body composition
- Personalised insights into muscle mass, body fat percentage, and more
- Tracking changes in body composition over time
- Identifying areas for improvement in fitness and health
- Tailoring exercise and nutrition plans to individual goals
Are InBody devices easy to use?
Yes, our friends at InBody designed their devices with the ease of use in mind. The interface is user friendly and results, although incredibly accurate, are easy to understand. In addition, the InBody 270 and 370s are also portable, so you can take it with you anywhere.
Are the results from InBody devices accurate?
Yes. InBody machines are the most accurate body composition analysers in the market. This is because four things:
- Multi-frequency BIA technology as opposed to single-frequency BIA
- InBody machines measure each segment of the body independently: your arms, legs, and trunks. Other machines measure the whole body, so results are not as accurate
- The machines come with an 8-Point Tactile Electrode System that ensures measures are super accurate
- InBody scales don’t use empirical estimations and only provide you a direct measurement based only on your body composition
All of this makes the InBody machines the most accurate (and best) body composition analysers in the market.
How often should I use an InBody device to track my body composition?
The frequency of InBody scans depends on your individual goals and needs. Some individuals may choose to have scans regularly to track progress and make adjustments to their fitness and nutrition plans, while others may opt for periodic scans to monitor changes over time.
The goal is to monitor your progress, so once a week or once every other week works best for most of our customers.
Can I use InBody devices with no professional help?
As we mentioned earlier, InBody machines are easy to use. Some clients use devices like the 270 and 370s at home and don’t require any professional help at all. The InBody 970 and 770 may require professional help to make the most of them.
Can I track changes in my body composition over time with an InBody scan?
Yes, one of the key benefits of InBody scans is the ability to track changes in your body composition over time.
By comparing scan results from different time points, you can monitor progress, identify trends, and adjust your fitness and nutrition plans accordingly to achieve your health and fitness goals.
Are there any limitations to InBody scans?
While InBody scans are highly accurate and reliable, they may have limitations in certain scenarios. Factors such as hydration levels, clothing worn during the scan, and recent exercise or meals can affect the results.
Try to keep things the same each time you get scanned. Pick a regular time, wear the same clothes or none at all, and use the same scale every time.
Can I eat or drink before InBdody scan?
It's best not to eat or drink anything, even water, for 3 to 4 hours before getting an InBody scan. This helps make sure the scan results are accurate by keeping your body's water levels steady.
Following this advice helps create the best conditions for a thorough evaluation of your body composition. This makes it easier to track your health and fitness changes accurately as time goes on.
I’m pregnant, can I use an InBody device?
Yes. InBody machines are safe for pregnant women but it’s best if you're past the first 12 weeks of pregnancy Also, one thing to remember is that because of changes in your body experience during pregnancy, results may not be as accurate.
I have two kids. Are InBody devices safe for children?
Yes, they are safe for children. InBody devices may be used to monitor children’s growth and nutritional assessment.
I’ve seen you talking about the Lookin’Body Web Data Management Platform. What is it?
Lookin’Body is a cloud based data management platform. You can store and manage the data from your InBody device. In addition, you’ll have access to data analysis and reporting, making the interpretation of data really easy.
Can I use an InBody device to diagnose medical conditions?
We love the data that comes out of these machines. It’s detailed and accurate. However, we shouldn’t use InBody machines to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. So, please, always check with your doctor for medical advice.
What InBody machine is suitable for personal use at home?
For personal use at home, the Inbody 270 and Inbody 370s are compact and user-friendly options. They provides basic body composition analysis and is suitable for individuals who want to track their health and fitness progress.
What InBody machine is best for fitness centres, gyms or small clinics?
The InBody 370s is a great choice for fitness centres or gyms because it offers enhanced functionality with segmental lean analysis and body water analysis.
It's designed to provide detailed fitness assessments and support weight management programs.
Which InBody model is best for sports teams, clinics or athletic performance centres?
The InBody 770 is recommended for sports teams or athletic performance centres. Its premium features and advanced metrics make it ideal for assessing athletes' body composition and monitoring their performance.
Which InBody scanner is ideal for research institutions or academic settings?
The InBody InBody 970 is the top choice for research institutions or academic settings. It's the most accurate and provides detailed analysis, making it great for scientific research and studies on body composition.
How can I compare the different InBody models to choose the right one for my needs?
Check out our InBody comparison table.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your biohacking journey, check out our InBody collection and find the right one for you. And if you still have questions, please send us an email or give us a call, we're here to help!