DEXA scan and lean body mass

  • Went in for a DEXA scan today because I can't do an accurate body comp at my size with a tape measure or caliper test.

    So, I'm 5'10" tall and it said my LBM is 152 lbs. I read somewhere that for women my height, LBM average range is 120-140 lbs. Does this mean my weight training has really paid off for the last four years? Or is there something I'm not factoring in?

    Also learned that I have exceptional bone density. That made me really happy.
  • That's great! Yes, weight training can make that much off a difference. You also started this at 353lbs - so don't underestimate how much more muscle is needed to carry that frame too. It is easier to go from overweight to strong than it is to go from underweight and strong. Your body naturally needs the muscle to carry a larger frame.
  • Thanks Sacha, I really needed perspective on this. I am surrounded by women who have been working up their muscles from a much thinner place and the two who are closer to my height have an LBM around 120lbs. And they have been working some time to build it. I haven't been working at it as long as them, so it was hard to believe the numbers.

    So, underneath all my layers...just gotta focus on my achievements and believe in it!