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Determining my body fat percentage

By April 27, 2013 - 6:06pm
 
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Hi! I'm having difficulties figuring out my BFP. The Karada scans that I had are inconsistent (BFP = 25.2%, BMI = 21.4; then BFP = 27.2%, BMI = 20.9 just three days later), so I cannot rely on it anymore. I noticed that the lower my heart rate was at the time of testing, the higher my assessed BFP was, too. I understand that active people are supposed to have higher heart rates. Theoretically, my RHR of 45bpm (plus my dismal BFP) means I am a lazy coach potato.

The thing is, I exercise 6 times a week. I make about 8000-12000 steps, do light weight-training for 30mins, and light cardio for 30mins. My muscles, though certainly average, are relatively more prominent than most of my female peers. We even eat and sleep at almost the same amounts. Still, after we all did a three-minute step test, they have heart rates above 140 and I at 112. I am certain that I have more physical activity than them (case in point: after the said test, all of them were panting and sore while I was perfectly fine). So what's really happening? Is my BFP really that bad, despite exercising regularly? Does my heart rate have anything to do with my BFP results? And what's with the low heart rate anyway? Thanks!

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EmpowHER Guest
Anonymous

Hi  sardonyxmemoirs 

Welcome to EmpowHER.  Your heart rate slows down when you stop exercising. Your pulse two minutes after exercise is what is called your "recovery heart rate," and that rate will go down as you become more fit. The actual numbers vary because everyone's heart rate varies--even between similar people at similar fitness levels. In some people, the heart rate remains elevated after exercise, and electrical pulses from the heart are irregular. This is often a sign of potential health problems.  If you feel concerned about your heart rate, it might be good to see your doctor and explain what is happening.  With the right testings, he can let you know if it's normal for you.

Best,

Daisy 


April 27, 2013 - 7:10pm
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