Q. How does the BOD POD compare with other body composition assessment techniques?

A. Body composition measurements from the BOD POD have been found to be equivalent (no statistically significant difference) to those obtained using 4-compartment model reference techniques. The BOD POD is also referred to as the “Practical Gold Standard” because testing is so easy and offers excellent repeatability.

Q. How does the BOD POD measure body composition?

A. The BOD POD measures body composition by determining Body Mass and Body Volume. From these two variables, Body Density is computed and used with an equation to provide body composition information.

Body Mass is easily determined by the use of an accurate scale.

Body Volume is determined by applying the gas law (p1V1=p2V2), an expansion of Boyle´s Law, pV=c. Three steps are performed to determine Body Volume. First, the volume of the test chamber while empty is measured. Second, the volume of the test chamber with the calibration cylinder in it is measured. And third, the volume of the test chamber with the subject inside is measured. By subtraction, the volume of the subject is then determined.

Body Density is calculated using the Body Mass and Body Volume measurements, from which body composition is then computed.

For more info, go to BOD POD Gold Standard – How It Works

Q. How long does a BOD POD test take?

A. A complete test, including printed results, takes about 5 minutes.

Q. How big of a person can fit in the BOD POD?

A. The BOD POD is designed to accommodate a wide variety of human shapes and sizes. Because of its generous-sized interior and oversized window, NFL and NBA teams, as well as sumo wrestlers use the BOD POD routinely without difficulty. The BOD POD can accommodate subjects up to 7 feet tall and 550 pounds.

Q. Do clothing and/or hair affect BOD POD results?

A. Clothing, hair, jewelry, and eyeglasses can have a significant impact on the volume and mass measurements performed during a BOD POD test. Therefore, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that all subjects tested in the BOD POD remove all jewelry and eyeglasses, and wear minimal, form-fitting clothing such as a Lycra® or Spandex® swimsuit during testing. Single-layer compression shorts and/or lightweight jog bras are also acceptable clothing (without padding or wires).

A swim cap must also be worn to compress any air pockets within the hair.

Q. What should a subject expect during a BOD POD test?

A. Subject compliance for testing in the BOD POD is very simple. They need only to sit comfortably and quietly inside the BOD POD for the brief measurement period (no talking or laughing). Sounds relating to valves opening and closing may be heard, but most subjects are unaware of the slight pressure changes that take place during a BOD POD test. A few people have noted a feeling similar to that of moving from the first to second floor in an elevator.

Q. Can subjects be tested in the BOD POD right after exercising or eating?

A. No. Subjects should wait at least two hours after exercising or eating, and always be in a completely relaxed state (normal breathing) when testing in the BOD POD.

Q. Are there any special considerations that should be noted in determining a proper testing location for the BOD POD?

A. Because BOD POD assessments use several physical relationships involving temperature, volume, pressure, and force to achieve the highest precision and accuracy, the BOD POD should be located in a stable environment. Therefore, the temperature, humidity, pressure, traffic, noise, and floor slope at the BOD POD testing location should comply with the specifications provided in the BOD POD Operator’s Manual.