There are a myriad of methods to assessing body composition and each has their strengths and weaknesses (sources of error or allowed variance). Being able to determine the appropriate method to assess body composition of your clients is an essential skill within the field. While some may be more accurate or a gold standard, they may be additional considerations including the cost, time, location, or volume of testing prohibited. Having an understanding of this will better assist you in helping your clients understand their body composition results and if changes have truly occurred over time with lifestyle modificaitons. Finally, the instructions that need to be expressed to clients before testing to ensure accuracy of the results can be a critical conversation prior to testing.
