Scales. How to choose the right bathroom scales?

Those who monitor or try to monitor their figure have bathroom scales in their home. The following fact has been established: after just a few days of using floor scales, the body weight of their owner decreases by an average of half a kilogram without any diets or exercises.

Bathroom scales are designed primarily for measuring a person's weight, but some models have the additional function of weighing large, heavy objects in household conditions. Usually scales allow you to weigh loads up to 160 kg.

Modern models of floor scales are equipped with built-in electronics that are not inferior in level to personal computers. Such scales determine not only your weight, but also the ratio of the amount of water, fat and muscle mass, and bone tissue in the body. Libra is capable of:

1. Remember the dynamics of weight changes over a certain period.
2. Calculate optimal weight using BMI (Body Mass Index) Factor, taking into account height, gender, age and body composition.
3. Identify a specific person from several possible users of the scale.
4. Provide personalized advice on diet and exercise.

Mechanical scales

Mechanical bathroom scales

In mechanical scales, the main element is the measuring spring. By standing on the scales, we act on this spring, it stretches under our weight, and in turn turns the arrow along the scale measurement scale, or the measurement scale itself, in proportion to the force of gravity created. Setting the “zero” in such scales is carried out with a special wheel located at the bottom of the scales. The division price of mechanical scales is usually 1 kg, less often 0.5 kg.

Mechanical scales are less troublesome to operate than electronic scales. They do not require replacement of power supplies. The maximum permissible load in mechanical scales is quite high.

In terms of cost, mechanical scales are an order of magnitude cheaper than electronic scales, but they are inferior in measurement accuracy and do not have additional functions.

Electronic balance

Electronic bathroom scales

Unlike mechanical scales, in electronic scales the weighing result is not displayed on a measuring scale with numbers, but is displayed using a digital display. Readings on electronic scales also have a certain division value. The discreteness of readings in different models of scales can vary from 0.1 to 0.5 kg. The principle of measuring weight in electronic scales can be different, depending on whether they contain metal parts and which ones.

The very first electronic scales were no different in weighing principle from mechanical scales. They had the same measuring spring, only the weighing result was displayed on a digital display. More complex electronic scales have two metal disks in their design, forming something similar to an electrical capacitor. At the slightest impact on the scales, the plates move apart, the electrical charge between the plates changes, and this in turn affects the weight readings. At the same time, the use of mechanical elements is minimized, which increases the reliability and durability of the scale design.

Finally, the most advanced scale models use a voltage sensor. A voltage sensor is a thin metal wire through which an electric current is passed. Under the influence of weight, the voltage sensor is tensioned, the electrical signal passing through the wire changes, and the readings of the measured weight on the digital display change accordingly. In scales with this design, mechanical elements are completely absent; all measurements are carried out only using electronics.

To operate electronic scales, batteries with a voltage of 1.5 V or 9 V are usually used. But some models of scales are powered by solar panels or energy accumulated from mechanical impact on the scales. Almost all electronic scales turn on and off automatically. Setting the “zero” in electronic scales is carried out automatically when they are turned on or using a special button on the case. Thanks to its intelligent filling, electronic scales have many additional functions.

Scale measurement error and maximum permissible weight

Floor scale measurement error

All scales have a certain measurement range. This range is limited by the maximum permissible weight.

On average, this limit threshold is 160 kg, but can vary in different models from different manufacturers from 100 to 220 kg, which is much more than the weight of the average user.

But if you or someone in your family is large and heavy, you should choose a scale model with a higher maximum load capacity.

Any measuring device has a measurement error. Therefore, when choosing scales, you should pay attention to the accuracy of the scales declared by the manufacturer. Cheap mechanical scales have a very large error of up to 0.5 - 1 kg. More expensive electronic scales have an error of 100–300 g.

If you really want to know your weight with an accuracy of grams, it is better to choose more expensive models of floor scales with the smallest error.

Mechanics versus electronics

With the advent of electronic scales, manufacturers, in the fight for the attention of buyers, began to supply them with a variety of diagnostic functions and analyzers. Due to all sorts of additional capabilities of electronic models, the well-known mechanical instruments for measuring weight have receded into the background. But maybe such an assessment is premature, and there are still users who still prefer mechanical models? So which bathroom scales are better: time-tested mechanical or modern electronic?

Scale memory capacity

When choosing the scale model you need, consider the amount of memory or the number of users. Modern models of floor scales are capable of storing from 2 to 10 users, whose weight measurement results will be recorded in memory. Scales track the dynamics of a person’s weight measurement and show the results of previous weighings.

Some scale models are capable of automatically identifying a person from several users. Therefore, you need to consider how many people in your family will constantly use the scale.

If your family is large and everyone in it actively monitors their weight, it is better to buy scales with a large memory capacity. If you are the only user of your scales, then you do not need to overpay for a model designed for 10 people.

Availability of additional functions

Additional functions of bathroom scales

Thanks to built-in electronics, modern scales have many additional functions. All these additions are marketing ploys on the part of manufacturers to better sell scales. But these additions primarily affect the rise in price of scales, and not their effectiveness in measuring a person’s weight. Therefore, when choosing scales, think about whether you need those additional functions that are included in expensive scale models. Often, having tried these functions for the first time after purchasing a scale, a person forgets about them due to their uselessness.

1. One of the innovations of modern scales is the calculation of the BMI body mass index (BMI). Before you start using this function, you must enter your height, age, gender and several other parameters into the scale’s memory. Body mass index is calculated using a complex formula, but the basic calculation is:

BMI = person's weight (kilograms) / height (meters)* height (meters).

If your scale does not have this feature, there is no need to change it. Using this formula, you can do it yourself.

2. Another function for which many threw away their old scales in order to buy new ones with this function is to determine the ratio of fat and muscle mass in the human body. This function is realized by passing a small discharge of electric current through the human body from electrodes located on the scale platform. Muscle, bone and fat tissue have different electrical resistance. Thanks to this, it is possible to approximately (with a very large degree of error) determine their ratio and mass fraction in the human body.

3. The scale automatically identifies a person from several users during constant weighing.

4. Weight control function, signals the user about significant changes in his weight with an audible signal.

5. Some models are equipped with a wireless monitor so that a person does not have to bend over and try to see his exact weight.

6. Modern electronic scales automatically turn on and off when used.

What should you pay attention to first?

First of all, it is important to understand that floor-standing models are intended only for measuring the weight of a person or pet. However, you can find models that are designed for large values ​​and allow you to weigh heavy objects in everyday conditions.

Important! Modern floor scales are a complex electronic device, sometimes not inferior in functionality to some gadgets. They are able to determine not only weight, but also calculate body mass index, calculate the volume of bones, fat and muscles in the body. In addition, some models even read body temperature and heart rate. You can find devices that tell you in which direction to build physical training.

Scale design

Bathroom scale design

Modern models of floor scales are made from a wide variety of materials: metal, plastic, glass, wood and many others. The most widely used models are a combination of glass and plastic or glass and metal.

Models of scales made of plastic are very popular; they are cheap and easy to use. Recently, glass scales have become widespread, but they require careful care and handling, and require some patience from the owner in their operation. Glass models with rubberized footrests for better stability are very practical.

There are more expensive models of floor scales with wooden elements; they are aesthetically pleasing and pleasant to use, since wood is a warm material and pleasant to the touch.

Housing material

Be sure to pay attention to the material from which the scale body is made. Scales with a metal body will last much longer than scales with a plastic body. Even if it is the most durable and reliable plastic, scales made of such material can become deformed over time. But the plastic is very reasonable for its price. There are also scales with a wooden body, but their price is quite high. Plastic is economical and durable, but not as much as metal. The natural stone platform is very durable, but heavy. The weight of such scales reaches 4 kilograms. As for the glass case, of course, it is aesthetically very beautiful, but you will need to handle them with extreme caution. And I still do not recommend purchasing glass scales for a house where there are children.

Tips for choosing bathroom scales:

• When choosing electronic scales, first of all you need to pay attention to the measurement system used in the scales. Many Western-made scales (USA, UK) measure a person’s weight not in the usual kilograms, but in pounds. You need to make sure that the scale is capable of switching to the metric measurement system.
• If you plan to install your scales in the bathroom or sauna, you should choose a scale model with a waterproof housing.
• The scales should have a corrugated or rough surface for better stability. There are models of floor scales with a platform that follows the shape of the feet (anatomical plateau).
• The scale must be stable and have mechanisms in its design that allow the scale to be leveled on an uneven floor.
• Floor scales made in a metal case will be reliable and most durable. You shouldn’t skimp on scales and buy a model that has a plastic base. Plastic is a fragile material, short-lived, and can deform over time and lose its original shape.
• It is better to check their accuracy when purchasing scales. It’s good if you know your true weight and, by weighing yourself on the scales, make sure they are working correctly. You can ask the sales staff in the store to compare the readings of the scales you are purchasing with other scales (preferably a different model and a different manufacturer). If your weight is the same on different scales, you can safely buy scales. If it is not possible to measure your weight, you should come to the store with a packaged product with the weight indicated on it. Place the item on the scale and compare the scale reading with the actual weight.
• To check the accuracy of a mechanical scale, press the scale firmly and release it quickly, after which the needle should quickly and accurately return to zero.
• If you are purchasing scales for a person with low vision, choose special models with a large digital display and a red dial.
• Bathroom scales must be installed on a hard and level floor. If the scale is installed on a thick, shag carpet or the floor has a slight slope or curvature, the scale's measurement error will fluctuate within 10%.
• To avoid damage or breakage of the scales, under no circumstances should they be overloaded.
• Electronic scales can be affected and thereby disrupt their operation by electromagnetic radiation from nearby radio equipment and powerful electrical appliances. Therefore, you should consider the location of the scales in the room in relation to all electrical appliances. If the scales malfunction, you should turn them off and turn the scales on again after waiting a few minutes.
• Do not step on the scale with wet feet, socks, tights or stockings. Slippery feet can cause you to trip or slip on the scale.
• To weigh yourself, stand on the scales straight (vertically), do not bend over, take a stable position (do not move, do not shift from one foot to another), as the scales are sensitive to all vibrations, which leads to disruption of the measurement and distortion of the correctness of your weight.
• To clean the scale, use a simple damp cloth. It is better to use plain water without chemical cleaning agents. An aggressive environment can erase designs or even paint from the scale body.

Operating principle

There are many methods used to determine a person's weight. One of them is produced through a weak current discharge, completely invisible to humans. Current is conducted through electrodes to a person’s legs, and the final indicators are calculated through body resistance and some other indicators. Therefore, on electronic scales, it is important to carefully follow the weighing rules and follow the instructions, since a slight deviation of the surface or humidity can throw off the readings.

To successfully lose weight, you need to walk a lot in the fresh air, lead an active lifestyle, drink more fluids, eat carbohydrates in the first half of the day and proteins in the second, do not starve, and the result will not be long in coming!