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.
