DEXA vs InBody: Which Scan is More Accurate for Body Composition?

When it comes to tracking your body composition — especially fat loss and muscle gain — accuracy matters. You’ve probably heard of DEXA scans and InBody scans, but how do they compare? And more importantly: which one gives you better data?

So let’s break it down in plain English.

What Is Body Composition?

Body composition refers to what your body is made of — primarily:

• Fat

• Muscle (lean tissue)

• Bone

• Water

Tracking these metrics gives you far more insight than just stepping on the scales. Whether you’re aiming to reduce body fat, build muscle, or improve overall health, understanding your composition is key.

What Is an InBody body composition Scan?

An InBody body composition scan is a type of BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis). It sends a weak electrical current through your body to estimate:

• Body fat %

• Muscle mass

• Total body water

While it’s quick and non-invasive, the results can vary based on hydration, food intake, and recent exercise.

What Is a DEXA Scan?

A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) uses low-level X-ray beams to measure:

• Body fat %

• Lean muscle mass

• Bone density

• Visceral fat (around organs)

• Fat distribution (android vs gynoid)

DEXA is considered the gold standard in body composition analysis.

DEXA vs InBody: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	DEXA Scan	InBody Scan
Accuracy	✅ High – clinical grade	⚠️ Moderate – estimation-based
Technology	X-ray	Bioelectrical Impedance
Measures Fat %	✅ Precise	⚠️ Can vary with hydration
Muscle Breakdown	✅ Detailed (arms, legs, trunk)	⚠️ General estimate
Bone Density	✅ Yes	❌ No
Visceral Fat	✅ Yes	⚠️ Indirect estimate
Consistency Over Time	✅ High	⚠️ Easily influenced by variables
Scan Time	~7 minutes	~1–2 minutes
Radiation Exposure	Very low (safer than a flight)	None

Which One Is More Accurate?

DEXA wins — hands down.

If you’re serious about tracking body fat % or muscle growth accurately, DEXA is the most reliable method available. It removes the guesswork that comes with BIA machines like InBody, especially if:

• You’re dehydrated

• You’ve recently exercised

• You’ve just eaten or drank fluids

Final Thoughts

While InBody scans are a convenient option found in some gyms, they simply don’t match the clinical accuracy and detail of a DEXA scan.

If you’re serious about tracking your body, InBody scans don't cut the mustard.

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