What is Renpho Athlete Mode? Should You Turn It On?

What is the definition of an Athlete?

For the purposes of Athlete Mode for the Renpho Bluetooth Smart Scales, an athlete is defined as someone who consistently works out for approximately 3 times a week for 2 hours. This may also apply to people, who used to work out frequently for a long period of time but less now. This mode is also suitable for people involved in endurance sports, such as running and cycling.

Why is Athlete Mode necessary in a Body Fat Scale?

It was found that body fat estimation using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) can overestimate the body fat percentage of adult athletes. The physiological variations of athletes are said to account for the difference in body composition compared to the average person with a moderately active lifestyle. Such variations include higher bone density and hydration levels in athletes. Therefore to get the most accurate measurement results, adult athletes should turn on Athlete Mode in the Renpho app.

How does Athlete Mode work?

The Renpho smart scales use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) by sending a low electrical current up one foot from one sensor and travels back down to the sensor beneath the other foot. The scale measures the amount of resistance to come back up with body composition. After the electrical current is sent back down with Athlete Mode on, the scale will measure the amount of resistance for athletes.

How to turn on/off Athlete Mode?

• When you are creating your Renpho app account for the first time and typing in your profile (name, age, etc.), the user can view Athlete Mode.
• After selecting Athlete Mode, you are directed to a page where you can enable - or disable - Athlete Mode.

If you have already created your account and you would like to turn on/off Athlete Mode:

• Go to My Account in the Renpho app.
• Above FAQ, Help, Add A Member, and Settings, tap on where there is your name, email, and profile picture.
• You will then see the same profile page from when you were setting up your account.

Final Thoughts

If you are still wondering whether or not you are considered an athlete, don’t worry too much about it. There is not an exact moment where you are - or are not - an athlete. Some people will get a slight underestimation on athlete mode and a slight overestimation on standard adult mode, falling in a gray area.

In which case, the most important factor to look for in the Renpho Bluetooth Smart Scales is when you are given consistent readings over a period of time. Sticking with the same assessment system will likely yield a better overall picture of a person's health status. Relative changes in value are more meaningful than the absolute value of a single measurement.