Today I took part in an interesting research study at Leeds Becketts University to measure body fat percentage/distribution, lean tissue and bone density in natural bodybuilders using a state-of-the-art DXA scanning machine (usually £200+ per scan). This involved me lying down while it X-rayed my body for 15 minutes. Unfortunately, the machine stopped half way through and decided that it couldn't scan my whole body in a single pass due to my size and width. The operator said it's the first this has ever happened while he's operated the machine!!! Oooops!
Embarrassment aside, below is a brief summary of the results and my conclusions:-
BODY FAT
Result
Officially 15% but 11% by usual body fat measurement standards. This is because the scan takes into account below the skin (subcutaneous) as well as internal (visceral) fat stores.
Conclusion
I'm very happy to remain at this bf% in my off season as this is fairly lean. Also, goes to show when people say they're at 10% bf...they're probably quite a few percentage points higher.
BONE DENSITY
Result
0 is normal, 1 is very good, 2 is superb. Mine is 2.2
Conclusion
Proof that years of heavy powerlifting and lifting heavy weights has strengthened and protected my bones and given me a much better chance of avoiding osteoporosis as I get older. The study also found that swimmers, cyclist, long distance runners and non-weight lifters have a much lower bone density. So I'd suggest all these groups begin lifting weights to protect their health for the future.
SPINE
Result
My whole spine is in really good condition, with no compression of discs
Conclusion
Those who say lifting heavy, doing heavy deadlifts and squats are dangerous in my opinion are incorrect as I've done so for many years. Doing any of these lifts incorrectly IS dangerous (hence get a tutor) but if done right, will strengthen your core, improve your posture and overall strength.
Due to my participation in this study I can get multiple free tests a year over the next 5 years. It'll be interesting to see how the numbers stack up when i'm contest ready. I'll be sure to post an update
Sam
Embarrassment aside, below is a brief summary of the results and my conclusions:-
BODY FAT
Result
Officially 15% but 11% by usual body fat measurement standards. This is because the scan takes into account below the skin (subcutaneous) as well as internal (visceral) fat stores.
Conclusion
I'm very happy to remain at this bf% in my off season as this is fairly lean. Also, goes to show when people say they're at 10% bf...they're probably quite a few percentage points higher.
BONE DENSITY
Result
0 is normal, 1 is very good, 2 is superb. Mine is 2.2
Conclusion
Proof that years of heavy powerlifting and lifting heavy weights has strengthened and protected my bones and given me a much better chance of avoiding osteoporosis as I get older. The study also found that swimmers, cyclist, long distance runners and non-weight lifters have a much lower bone density. So I'd suggest all these groups begin lifting weights to protect their health for the future.
SPINE
Result
My whole spine is in really good condition, with no compression of discs
Conclusion
Those who say lifting heavy, doing heavy deadlifts and squats are dangerous in my opinion are incorrect as I've done so for many years. Doing any of these lifts incorrectly IS dangerous (hence get a tutor) but if done right, will strengthen your core, improve your posture and overall strength.
Due to my participation in this study I can get multiple free tests a year over the next 5 years. It'll be interesting to see how the numbers stack up when i'm contest ready. I'll be sure to post an update
Sam
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