Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA) in Munich – Understand Your Body Composition with Precision
The scale only shows a number. We show you what it’s made of. The scale only shows a number. We show you what it’s made of. With bioimpedance analysis (BIA) at SmartPraxis in Munich-Nymphenburg, we measure your muscle mass, body fat percentage, and hydration levels – quickly, painlessly, and with medical interpretation. This way, we make progress visible that the scale alone can’t capture. #staywell #reallysmart
Why the number on the scale doesn't tell you enough
Many people rely solely on the number on the scale when it comes to health or weight loss. From a medical standpoint, however, what truly matters is how your body composition changes – particularly muscle mass, body fat, and hydration levels.
Especially at the beginning of a dietary change or exercise programme, muscle and fat percentages often shift simultaneously. The number on the scale may remain unchanged, even though positive changes are already taking place in the body. With bioimpedance analysis, we assess these values in detail – more objectively than through weight monitoring alone.
What is bioimpedance analysis (BIA)?
Bioimpedance analysis is an established, non-invasive method for measuring body composition. A very weak electrical current that you cannot feel is passed through the body. Because muscle tissue (which has a high water content) conducts electricity differently than fat tissue, the individual body compartments can be calculated:
- Muscle mass and fat-free body mass
- Body fat percentage and fat distribution
- Hydration levels (intracellular and extracellular)
- Additional parameters for assessing metabolism and nutritional status
The measurement is quick, painless, and radiation-free – making it ideally suited for regular progress monitoring.
Our device: seca mBCA 555
We use the seca mBCA 555 (medical Body Composition Analyzer) – a medical-grade analysis device developed for professional use in clinical practice. It delivers reproducible, medically reliable results, which we then review together with you.
Why building muscle matters so much for your health
Current scientific evidence increasingly shows that strength training goes far beyond building muscle or athletic performance. Regular training strengthens not only the muscles but also has a positive impact on numerous health factors.
Studies indicate that strength training can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additional benefits have been observed for sleep quality, mental well-being, and depressive symptoms.
Importantly, this is expressly not about competitive sport or complex training programmes. Even regular, simple exercises can deliver meaningful health benefits.
Particularly crucial is maintaining muscle mass – especially during weight loss or medically assisted weight reduction programmes. Losing weight doesn’t automatically mean losing only fat: without targeted measures, valuable muscle tissue can also be broken down. This is precisely what we make visible with BIA.
Why BIA measurement makes sense
Because muscle gain and fat loss often occur simultaneously, BIA measurement helps to
- assess muscle gain and fat loss separately,
- make progress objectively visible,
- better evaluate dietary and training measures,
- detect unfavourable muscle loss early on.
This way, we replace guesswork with reliable data – and you can see in black and white that your efforts are working, even when the scale isn’t moving.
Who benefits most from BIA?
We recommend regular follow-up measurements especially for:
- Weight loss
- Dietary changes
- Strength training or muscle building
- Medically supervised weight reduction programmes
- Metabolic and preventive health programmes
Mit dem Laden des Videos akzeptieren Sie die Datenschutzerklärung von YouTube.
Mehr erfahren
How your BIA examination works
1. Bioimpedance analysis – approx. 10 minutes The measurement is performed quickly and straightforwardly on-site at our practice using the seca mBCA 555.
2. Consultation – approx. 20 minutes Afterwards, we review your results together and interpret the values individually – based on your personal goals, your diet, and your physical activity. As partners, on equal footing, and explained in plain language.
Costs
BIA measurement (without consultation)
€26.54
Consultation
depending on scope, from €20
BIA is an individual health service (self-pay service). Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about the scope or costs. Bioimpedance analysis is also included in many of our check-up packages.
Book an Appointment
Want to learn more about your body than the scale can tell you? Book your BIA measurement including medical consultation – conveniently online or by phone.
SmartPraxis Medical Centre · Rosa-Bavarese-Str. 1 · 80639 Munich-Nymphenburg #getwell #staywell #smartmedicine
Frequently asked questions about bioimpedance analysis (FAQ)
What is bioimpedance analysis?
BIA is a non-invasive measurement method that uses a weak, imperceptible electrical current to determine body composition – meaning muscle mass, body fat percentage, and hydration levels.
Does the measurement hurt?
No. The measurement is completely painless; the current used is imperceptible, and there is no radiation exposure.
How long does a BIA take?
The measurement including preparation takes about 10 minutes. With the subsequent consultation, you should plan for around 30 minutes.
How should I prepare for the measurement?
For the most accurate results, you should avoid large meals and intense physical activity immediately before the measurement. It is also advisable to empty your bladder beforehand. You will receive further specific preparation instructions when booking your appointment.
What does BIA cost at SmartPraxis?
The analysis is a medical procedure billed according to the current German Medical Fee Schedule (GOÄ). The current cost is €26.54. A supplementary consultation starts from €20, depending on scope.
Who should consider BIA?
Regular measurements are particularly recommended for weight loss, dietary changes, strength training, medically supervised weight reduction programmes, and metabolic and preventive health programmes.
Why isn't a regular scale enough?
The scale only shows your total weight. It doesn’t distinguish between muscle, fat, and water. BIA makes precisely these changes visible – even when the number on the scale stays the same.
How does a simple body fat scale differ from a professional BIA analysis?
A standard body fat scale provides only rough estimates and is susceptible to fluctuations caused by fluid intake or exercise. A professional BIA analysis, by contrast, measures the entire body using multiple electrodes and frequencies, delivering significantly more precise, scientifically validated results.
In addition to body fat and muscle mass, BIA also measures body water, water retention, visceral fat, and the phase angle as an indicator of cell health.. This makes it the method of choice for accurate body composition analysis as well as for nutrition, training, and therapy plans.