– It is recommended to test every quarter to effectively track progress. Some people, who are working toward specific health goals, check more frequently, like every 2 – 4 weeks.
– For each test, it is recommended that you maintain the same conditions of preparation each time you test. This ensures changes are lifestyle changes, not a change in external factors.

Prior to Testing
DO:
Maintain your normal fluid intake the day before
o Overhydration = Muscle Mass increases
o Dehydration = Lean Mass decreases
o 16-20 oz of water 45 min prior to test

Stand upright for at least 5 – 10 minutes
o Body water is more balanced, giving most accurate results

Remove socks/pantyhose
o Test bare footed so the currents can go through skin for accurate results

Remove all heavy objects such as jewelry, watches, belts, wallets, and jackets
o It will add to your overall weight, considering it body fat

Warm yourself up for 20 minutes in cold weather
o Arteries and veins in the skin will contract in cold weather affecting blood flow
o Recommended to test between 68 – 77 degrees F

Use the bathroom

DON’T:
Eat or exercise for 2 – 3 hours
o Food can take 120 minutes to fully reabsorb
o Drink that is not absorbed will be considered fat. Don’t drink 45 min before testing
o Exercise increases blood circulation, which changes fluid distribution segmentally, water imbalance, and an increase in body temperature

Consume alcohol or excess caffeine for at least 24 hours
o Both are considered diuretics, which causes you to lose fluids
o Keep your daily routine. If you drink coffee every morning, then continue for each test

Use a shower or a sauna
o Like warming up in cold weather, shower and sauna affect blood flow and dehydration

Use lotion or ointment on your hands or feet
o It may weaken the conductivity or current on the body. Use a tissue to clean it off on hands and feet.

Special Cases
Menstruation
o Changes in body water

Breast Implants
o Currents are unable to penetrate the implant’s casing and the weight of the implants are added to the individual’s body weight mass as fat mass
o Since it will be constant, will be okay to track changes over time

Metal Implants
o It will show an increase in lean mass.
o However, it will be consistent from test to test

Not Recommended
Pregnant Women
o Changes in body fluid, which will be different from client’s “normal” baseline

Pacemakers
o No known risks, but cannot do it without prior approval from patient’s cardiologist

Amputees or Individuals Unable to Stand
o All eight electrodes must be touched and must remain standing during testing