Those Frustrating Scale Numbers
Most people who are trying to lose weight often become frustrated by the number that is displayed on the scale. As a personal trainer I use the scale ONLY as a tool to determine body composition. The individuals whose weight will fall the most significantly on the scale are those individuals that are obese. Generally as body fat percentages go for males, 10% and under indicates very lean, 11-15% indicates a lean individual, 16-20% is average, and 20% and higher is considered obese. For women, the following percentages are used: 20% and under indicates a very lean individual, 21%-25% indicates a lean individual, 26%-34% is average, and 34% and greater is considered obese. A qualified personal trainer can check your body fat percentage with a skin caliper and will be able to calculate your fat mass. A realistic goal for most people is to lose 3% body fat in 4-6 weeks. This is done without starving the body, and by being on a rigorous exercise program. So get your body fat percentage and lose weight by the test, not the scale!
Ray Vargas, Certified Personal Fitness Trainer ISOTONEX High Intensity Training & Sports Nutrition Serving the San Jose, CA area Telephone: 408-506-2209 Schedule a consultation here 
