DEXA Body Composition Scans Compared
Compare DEXA scan providers for body fat percentage, lean mass, bone density, and visceral fat analysis. Find the most accurate body composition testing near you.
Pricing Comparison
| Provider | Scan Type | Price | Accuracy | Duration | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DexaFit | DEXA | $149 | 1-2% | 12-15 min | Franchise network, US + international |
| BodySpec | DEXA | $59.95 | 0.5% | under 15 min | CA/TX/WA/MA + mobile vans |
| Fitnescity | DEXA | $255 | 1-2% | 10-15 min | 1,000+ partner sites nationwide |
| Live Lean Rx | DEXA | $75 | 98% accuracy (per Live Lean Rx) | 5-10 min | 22 locations across 15 states |
Features & Metrics
| Provider | Consultation | Tracking App | Athlete Mode | Radiation | Report Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DexaFit | Yes | Yes | Yes | 0.4 mSv | Digital + PDF |
| BodySpec | Brief | Yes | Yes | 0.4 mSv | Digital + PDF |
| Fitnescity | Yes | Yes | Yes | 0.4 mSv | Digital + PDF |
| Live Lean Rx | Yes | Yes | Yes | 0.4 mSv | Digital + PDF |
Provider Profiles
DexaFit
Franchise network with local pricing • 3D body scan add-on • Multi-scan packages • Memberships at some locations • HSA/FSA eligible
BodySpec
Affordable DEXA scans • Mobile van locations • Results in hours • App tracking • AI results consultant • Credits never expire
Fitnescity
1,000+ partner locations nationwide • Physician-reviewed results • Regional and android/gynoid analysis • BMD with z-score • NHANES percentile comparison • No referral needed
Live Lean Rx
Affordable scans • Quick results • Comparison tracking • Mobile app
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are DEXA scans for body composition?
DEXA scans are considered the gold standard for body composition with 1-2% margin of error for body fat percentage. They're more accurate than bioelectrical impedance scales (3-5% error) or calipers. DEXA provides regional body fat distribution and can track visceral fat specifically.
How often should I get a DEXA scan?
For tracking body composition changes, every 3-6 months is ideal. This allows enough time for meaningful changes in lean mass or fat mass. More frequent scanning (monthly) may show too much noise from hydration and glycogen fluctuations.
Is DEXA scan radiation dangerous?
DEXA scans use very low radiation - about 0.4 mSv per scan, roughly equivalent to a few hours of natural background radiation or a cross-country flight. This is 10-20x less radiation than a chest X-ray. Annual or quarterly scans pose negligible health risk.
What's the difference between DEXA and InBody scans?
DEXA uses X-ray technology and is the gold standard (1-2% accuracy). InBody uses bioelectrical impedance and is less accurate (3-5% error) but faster, cheaper, and widely available at gyms. DEXA is better for baseline measurements and tracking progress, while InBody works for quick spot-checks.
How should I prepare for a DEXA scan?
For best accuracy:avoid eating 2-4 hours before, avoid exercise the morning of, stay well hydrated (but empty bladder before scan), wear minimal clothing without metal, and try to scan at the same time of day for tracking purposes.
What metrics does a DEXA scan provide?
DEXA provides:total body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, bone mineral density, regional breakdown (arms, legs, trunk), visceral fat area/volume, and android/gynoid fat ratio. Some facilities add RMR (resting metabolic rate) testing to estimate calorie needs.