Why TANITA is the Global Standard in Body Composition Analysis

For more than two decades, TANITA has set the global standard in professional body composition analysis. Backed by independent research and advanced algorithms, TANITA analyzers deliver unmatched accuracy across diverse populations. From pioneering 4C Technology to developing multi-frequency measurement and tailored algorithms for athletes and clinical populations, our devices are built on science — and trusted by governments, researchers, and professionals worldwide. With a strong after-sales support system, TANITA ensures long-term reliability you can depend on.

TANITA Japan

Note: This article was originally published by TANITA Japan and has been translated from its original Japanese.

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There are clear reasons why professionals around the world choose TANITA’s body composition analyzers:

1. Advanced Body Composition Technology
2. Backed by Evidence, Proven in Practice
3. Dedicated After-Sales Support

1. Advanced Body Composition Technology#

Algorithms Built on Scientific Evidence#

How Body Composition Analyzers Work
TANITA’s professional analyzers use Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) to evaluate body composition. A safe, low-level electrical current passes through the body, and impedance (resistance) is measured. Combined with weight, height, and other parameters, the device applies proprietary regression equations to calculate precise body composition values.

TANITA Medical Advisory Board#

In 1998, TANITA established the TANITA Medical Advisory Board, composed of independent experts in body composition, obesity, and nutrition. The Board collaborates on research to advance body composition evaluation technology and ensures that all information released by TANITA is scientifically valid and ethically sound.

Three Core Features of TANITA’s Analysis Algorithms#

  1. 4C Technology
    TANITA’s algorithms are benchmarked against the Four-Compartment (4C) model, considered the most accurate body composition evaluation method. By aligning closely with 4C data — rather than relying only on DXA-based methods — TANITA achieves improved accuracy across diverse populations, including athletes, lean individuals, and those with edema.Independent testing demonstrates:
    • Higher R² values (greater consistency with reference methods)
    • Lower SEE values (reduced variability and error)
  2. Category-Specific Algorithms
    Rather than applying a single formula to everyone, TANITA uses algorithms tailored to:Research confirms that distinguishing between athletes and the general population improves accuracy. Even with the same impedance values, body composition differs significantly, making specialized algorithms essential.
    • Sex
    • Age group (children, adults)
    • Body type (standard, athlete)
  3. Advanced Multi-Frequency Measurement
    TANITA’s multi-frequency BIA technology (low, 50 kHz, and high frequencies) enables the precise separation of intracellular and extracellular water, reducing errors caused by aging muscle changes and edema.The limb muscle mass algorithm, co-developed with leading institutions, has been published in peer-reviewed research【1】, further strengthening the reliability of TANITA’s data.

2. Backed by Evidence, Proven in Practice#

Validated Accuracy#

TANITA’s professional analyzers are consistently validated against gold standard methods, confirming their exceptional precision.

  • Total Body Fat and Muscle Mass
    Multi-frequency TANITA analyzers demonstrate 99% agreement (R² = 0.99) with the 4C method.
  • Limb Muscle Mass & Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI)
    Co-developed algorithms deliver reliable results that minimize the effects of edema and age-related tissue changes.
    Reference: Yamada Y et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2017.
  • Other Parameters
    Evidence-based data has also been published on total body water, extracellular water, and additional measures.

Trusted in Global Research and National Health Surveys#

TANITA analyzers are used in government statistics and research programs worldwide, including:

Japan

  • Ministry of Education — Super Shokuiku School Survey (2014–2016)
  • Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare — National Health and Nutrition Survey (2018)
  • Ministry of the Environment — Eco-Child Study (2019)

International

  • United States — National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • United Kingdom — MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
  • United Kingdom — National Health Service (NHS)
  • Hong Kong — Hong Kong Growth Study

For example, in Japan’s 2017 National Health and Nutrition Survey, muscle mass in adults over 65 was measured using TANITA’s multi-frequency analyzers. Identical TANITA models, using the same algorithms, allow for direct comparison with this national dataset.

3. Dedicated After-Sales Support#

A Commitment to Reliability#

TANITA provides more than 700 maintenance and repair services annually, ensuring long-term accuracy and dependable performance. Our services include:

  • On-site inspections and repairs
  • Collection and servicing
  • Rapid, tailored support to meet customer needs

With TANITA, professionals can trust their equipment for consistent, precise results year after year.

Contact Us
For product inquiries or service requests, please contact TANITA directly.

Reference#

  1. Yamada Y, et al. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2017.