Understanding The Numbers

What is Body Recomposition?

Body recomposition is the process of changing your body's ratio of fat mass to lean mass—simultaneously losing body fat and building muscle. This is most effective for beginners or those returning from a break. For advanced individuals, it's often more efficient to focus on distinct "bulking" (muscle gain) and "cutting" (fat loss) phases.

Key Terms

• TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure): The total number of calories your body burns in a day, including all activities. This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor formula, a widely accepted standard.
• Lean Body Mass (LBM): The weight of your body minus your body fat. It includes muscles, bones, organs, and water.
• Macronutrients: The three main nutrients your body needs: Protein (for muscle repair and growth), Carbohydrates (for energy), and Fats (for hormone production and health).

How to Get an Accurate Body Fat %

Your body fat percentage is a crucial input. Inaccurate measurements will lead to inaccurate results. Common methods include:

• DEXA Scan: The most accurate method.
• Hydrostatic Weighing: Very accurate but less common.
• Skinfold Calipers: Accurate if performed by a skilled professional.
• Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA) Scales: Convenient but can be highly inaccurate and fluctuate with hydration levels.