Changes in your body composition, including increases in muscle and bone density and fat loss are best measured through a bio-electro impendence test, skin fold calipers and other tests. It is possible to lose body fat and gain weight on the scale as you increase muscle tissue. Increasing muscle tissue on your body will not only add strength and support proper posture but will increase the calories burned during daily activities and rest.
Circumference measurements are another good tool for measuring fitness success. If your waist and hip measurements decrease, chances are good you are losing subcutaneous body fat. By taking baseline measurements at specific sites on the body, you are better able to track muscle gain and fat loss.
Cardiovascular Fitness Testing is a good way to test the efficiency of your heart and circulatory system. Performing a treadmill walk test, stress test or bike ergometer test, can track progress. The heart is a muscle and responds to exercise stimulus.
Flexibility Testing is an effective way to show improvement in range of motion at specific joints. The sit and reach test is a popular test to demonstrate hamstring and low back range of motion.
Muscular Strength and Endurance Testing is a great way to track increase in functional muscle. Performing one rep upper and lower body testing as well as muscular endurance tests such as the push up test will help establish practical muscle function.
Setting goals, measuring a baseline and progress are keys for improving fitness. Whether your goal is to lose body fat, improve your running time, increase your strength or shape and tone your body, fitness testing will not only help track progress but show areas you may need to focus on improving! Feel free to contact me to set up a fitness testing appointment, establish baseline levels and establish goals.