What is a BOD POD Body Composition Test? 
Body composition is a measurement of a person’s fat and fat free (lean) mass. Testing your body composition is a great way to set, monitor and achieve realistic health and fitness goals. BOD POD analysis is based on the same whole-body measurement principal as underwater weighing but uses patented air displacement technology instead of water. The BOD POD testing method, which uses air displacement technology, is considered to be the gold standard of body composition measurement and is as accurate as hydrostatic (underwater) weighing, but much quicker and easier to perform.
Benefit and Accuracy
The BOD POD testing method is highly accurate with only a 2-5% error as is able to detect even small changes in fat and lean body mass (i.e., muscle bone and organs). Body composition is one of the best indicators of overall health. The feedback you receive from your BOD POD test can be used to measure the success of both your nutrition and exercise program, monitor for obesity, and help you lose or gain body fat safely.
Length of testing
Subjects are required to sit inside the BOD POD cabin for about 3 minutes. However, during this time, the Bod Pod door is opened and closed 3 times in 40-second intervals. The total time to complete a test, including reviewing results with the client, is approximately 15-20 minutes.
What to expect
Subjects are required to simply sit comfortably and quietly (no laughing or talking), relax and breathe normally throughout the test. Sounds relating to the valves opening and closing may be heard, but most people are unaware of the slight pressure changes that take place. You may notice a feeling similar to being in an elevator or the initial take-off in an airplane.
Preparing for a Bod Pod Assessment
To receive the most accurate test results, it is recommended that subjects follow these instructions prior to testing:
- Consume no food or drink and abstain from exercise at least 2 hours prior to testing.
- Wear minimal, form-fitting clothing (i.e., single-layer spandex or bathing suit) and a bathing cap.
- Do not wear jewelry during the test.
Cost
Bod Pod testing is free for all current clients receiving training through our Personal Training Program. If you are not a client, you may purchase a Bod Pod test at the Front Desk in the Student Life Center using a credit card or check made out to SUNY Cortland. After purchasing your Bod Pod Test, you will receive an email with instructions and a link to the Bod Pod Test Request Form. You will need to click on the link, complete the form and submit your availability for testing.
Please note: we cannot schedule your Bod Pod Test until you have paid for the service!
Bod Pod Fitness Test Pricing
Single Bod Pod Fitness Assessment for Students, Faculty/Staff and Members of the Student Life Center: $20
Bod Pod Fitness Test for current clients in the Personal Training Program: Free
Once we receive your request, a Bod Pod Technician will contact you within 1-3 days.
More Information
If you have questions, please send an email to: [email protected], Assistant Director for Fitness or call 607-753-4943.