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What is body composition — and why should you care about it?
September 18, 2025
INSIGHT
What is body composition — and why should you care about it?

When we talk about health and physical change, weight tends to get all the attention. But weight alone says very little. Two people can weigh the same, yet have completely different levels of fat and muscle.

That’s where body composition comes in. It refers to what your body is made of — primarily fat, muscle and bone. And it gives you a far more accurate view of your health and fitness than the number on a scale.

The components of your body:

  • Fat mass: Includes subcutaneous fat (under the skin), visceral fat (around your organs), and essential fat.
  • Lean mass: Muscle, organs, fluids and bones — everything that isn’t fat.
  • Bone mass: Often underestimated, your bone health is key to long-term wellbeing, especially as you age.

Why is it so important to understand it?

Because weight loss isn’t always good, and weight gain isn’t always bad. What really matters is what kind of mass you’re gaining or losing. Losing muscle while dieting or training can weaken your body and slow your metabolism. Gaining fat while “bulking” may increase your weight but not your strength or performance.

Understanding your body composition helps you:

  • Train smarter and prevent injury.
  • Adjust your nutrition according to your real needs.
  • See if your changes are actually taking you closer to your goals.
  • Track your progress in a precise, scientific way.

What’s the healthiest body composition?

There’s no single “ideal” composition — it varies by sex, age, genetics and goals. But generally:

  • Less visceral fat is better for metabolic health.
  • More lean mass (especially muscle) helps with strength, mobility and longevity.
  • Strong bones protect you from fractures and osteoporosis as you age.

How can you measure your body composition?

There are many methods, but most aren’t very accurate. Smart scales, wearables and bioimpedance devices use estimates based on electrical current, which can be influenced by hydration, recent exercise or what you’ve eaten.

At TIVEN, we use a DEXA scanner — the most accurate, medical-grade technology to measure your fat, muscle and bone. It’s quick, painless and gives you a full breakdown in just 6 minutes.

You’re more than a number.

Stop obsessing over weight. Focus on what your body is made of. Knowing your body composition gives you the power to make informed, healthy changes — and to see real progress where it truly matters.