A DEXA scan, or bone density test, is an imaging technique that measures bone density or strength. The results are then used to measure your body composition including body fat and muscle mass. The DEXA test is one of the most widely used technologies for fitness because of its comprehensive and accurate measurements. The results help you know how your body fat is distributed in your arms, legs, waist, and hips. This information can then be used to create the optimal workout and diet routine to meet your body goals. Ongoing DEXA scans can then help you access your progress towards that goal.
Why take a DEXA scan?
The weighing scale and Body Mass Index (BMI) are very blunt measures for your body composition. If you are working on loosing fat or gaining muscle, you need to use an accurate measure of your progress. A DEXA scan can do just that – it is the most accurate measure of body fat % overall and for different parts of your body than any other technology available currently. It provides an excellent baseline for individuals focusing on medical weight loss or starting on a fitness journey. In order to be most effective, we recommend 3 month follow-up scans so you can track your progress and rekindle your motivation.
In addition to measuring the fat percentages in your body, a DEXA scan can help you focus on intermediate solutions to help prevent the development of long-term diseases and other health-related issues. For example, it can suggest risks associated with heart disease, hypertension, and/or diabetes.
DEXA is the gold standard for body fat composition measurements. Unlike CT, MRI, or other body composition alternatives such as Bioimpedence machines or body fat scales, the DEXA scan provides accuracy and reliability without the drawbacks of radiation or high costs.
How to Take a DEXA Scan
The DEXA scan is pretty straightforward. For your DEXA scan, come dressed in comfortable clothes with minimal metal (many people opt to wear workout gear). You will be prompted to lay down on our scanner for approximately 10 minutes. As you lie down on the scanning platform, you will be positioned in a way that allows the scanner to get the most accurate results. There is no pain and very little radiation as the scanning machine gathers the information and uploads your scans and results onto the DEXA scan software. The results of the scan are available immediately after the scan is complete and will be shared with you.
Keep in mind that some DEXA machines are different from others, so we suggest coming back and using the same DEXA technology to have a better comparison of your progress over time. Track Your Max uses top-of-the-line modern scanners and technology to make sure you are getting the most accurate information about your body and your health.
What is a good DEXA body fat percentage?
Like other Body Mass Index tests, DEXA compares your results to the general population to give you comparative data about your body makeup. Unlike other tools, DEXA is the only body composition analysis tool that uses a large-scale database of population scans to compare your results with people who are similar to you in age, weight, and body composition.
We believe “You can only manage what you measure”. Following that belief, Track Your Max in Webster, TX provides many solutions and tools for you to manage your body and your health. If you have questions or concerns about your body shape, composition, or health, contact our office to get access to state-of-the-art technology that can help you get the answers you need.
