HAWC’s Sci-Fi Bod Pod taking off in popularity

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  • By Nick Stubbs
  • Thunderbolt editor
MacDill AFB, Fla --  Effective, quality tools have always been what makes accomplishing important tasks possible, that is when they are backed by the determination of the person using the tool. That's been the secret behind the success of the Bod Pod. 

A high-tech machine that analyzes and reports a person's body fat percentage, the Bod Pod is one the latest, and most successful pieces of health and fitness hardware at the MacDill Health and Wellness Center. Brought online recently, the machine has rapidly become one of the most utilized tools at the HAWC. 

"We have gotten a very good response," said Joan Craft, HAWC director. "It (the pod) is very accurate and allows users to come in a retest and get a very good idea of their fitness and weight loss progress." 

The machine requires users to wear a spandex suit before entering the pod, a sort of capsule resembling something more from science fiction than a fitness manufacturer. Once inside, the machine uses a proprietary system to analyze the entire body of the person inside, reporting body fat percentage and a full report. 

The result can be compared to follow up visits, helping those seeking to improve their fitness level, monitor program success and modify as needed. It's the accuracy of the Bod Pod, compared to "old-fashioned" body fat measuring, that makes it such a useful tool. 

"It is an excellent tool to use for feedback and when a baseline is needed to set and track goals," said Ms. Craft. "This is valuable for those who want to see their results." 

Appointment to use the Bod Pod can be made a day ahead, with most available sessions in the mornings. Call the HAWC at 828-4739. 

In addition to the Bod Pod, Ms. Craft reminds everyone on base that shoe and gate analysis is available for those contemplating running or jogging as part of their physical fitness routine. Diet also is important, and the HAWC can help. 

Reference copies of "Eat this, not that," a book that analyzes and recommends foods commonly found in grocery stores and at restaurants, are available. There also is a version of the book geared toward children.