Operation Manual

Polar BodyAge System SW Help
kHz, 500 microamp), a measurement of the baseline resistance to the flow of electrical current
can be made. This current is passed though the anterior electrode on the scale platform, and the
voltage drop is then measured on the posterior electrode. The resistance measurement relates
directly to the volume of the conductor, which is used to determine total body water, lean body
mass, and finally, fat mass. Percent body fat is calculated using a formula combining impedance
and weight measurements with height, gender, and age information.
In order to obtain the most accurate results from your bioimpedance device, ensure the following
conditions are met:
• No alcohol 48 hours before the test
• Avoid intense exercise 12 hours before the test
• Avoid eating or drinking (especially caffeinated products) 4 hrs before the test
• Empty bladder 30 minutes before test
• Avoid all diuretics for 7 days before test (only if possible)
• Measure in bare feet. Individuals wearing thin nylons will receive accurate results if a
drop of liquid (saline solution, water) is placed in the center of each electrode.
Athlete Mode
There are physiological differences between standard adults and very athletic individuals. The
actual impedance reading will be the same in both the standard and athletic modes, however, a
different algorithm validated in athletic populations, must be used when interpreting this data.
Thus, the percent body fat reported for an athletic individual measured in the standard mode (or
vice versa) is incorrect.
When you go into the testing screen for Bioimpedance (see Using Bioimpedance) you will have
the option to select ’Athlete’ if the person being measured is an athlete. The guidelines for
selecting 'Athlete’ are as follows:
• Individuals over the age of 16 who exercise at least 10 hours a week consistently for a
period of at least 6 months.
• Individuals who have a resting heart rate of approximately 60 beats per minute or less.
• This mode includes people who have been very fit for years, but currently exercise less
than 10 hours per week.
Bioimpedance Measurement
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