8 Marker - Exam Question 2 ANSWER

A sports performer is looking to test their Body Composition; they have decided to use the BIA test; describe the BIA test, its strengths and weaknesses and make suggestions on other tests that can be used?

(8 Marks)  Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis is a method of measuring the amount of fat in your body, through the use of electrodes which are attached to the wrist and ankle. (1 Mark)  Body fat restricts the speed of the current, so the greater the percentage of body fat the more current that is needed.(1 Mark) Strengths (Advantages)  The BIA is a quick test to carry out and gives instant results to the participant. (1 mark)  It is possible to repeat the test a number of times without any adverse effects. (1 mark) Weaknesses (Disadvantages)  The equipment that is required for the BIA test is normally expensive to purchase and requires technical knowledge to use. (1 mark)  Another method to measure body composition is BMI test (1mark), this test has advantages because it

requires no specialist equipment, just knowledge of your height and weight, and the ability to calculate. (1 mark)  It is also possible to measure body composition is the use of skin fold callipers (1 mark) and the JacksonPollock nomogram for prediction of body fat. (1 mark)