DEXA & RMR questions

A DEXA scan is a low-dose X-ray that measures fat, lean muscle and bone separately. It is considered a gold standard for body composition.

A resting metabolic rate test measures how many calories your body burns at rest.

Most people retest after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent training and nutrition, so there is enough time for real change.

A DEXA scan is $109, an RMR test is $109, and the DEXA + RMR Combo is $189, which saves $29 compared with booking both separately. Pricing is the same at all five locations.

A DEXA scan uses low-dose X-rays, so you are exposed to a small amount of ionizing radiation. The dose from a body composition DEXA scan is low, but radiation exposure is cumulative over a lifetime, so unnecessary exposure should be avoided. DEXA at Bodymass is for body composition, fitness, performance and wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition, and it does not replace evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Before your scan you will be asked to review and acknowledge a radiation exposure consent form.

People who are pregnant, suspect they may be pregnant, or are unsure should not have a DEXA scan without first consulting a healthcare professional. You will be asked to confirm that, to the best of your knowledge, you are not pregnant, and to tell our staff before your scan if you are pregnant, might be, or are uncertain.

They can. Certain medical procedures, including some imaging studies, nuclear medicine procedures, contrast studies and radiation treatments, may affect whether a DEXA scan should be performed or the accuracy of your results. Tell our staff before your scan if you are currently receiving radiation treatment or have recently had a procedure involving radioactive materials, contrast agents or other imaging that may be relevant. If you are unsure whether a medical condition, pregnancy status or recent procedure makes a DEXA scan appropriate, consult a qualified healthcare professional first.

A DEXA scan appointment is 30 minutes, an RMR test appointment is 30 minutes, and the DEXA + RMR Combo appointment is 45 minutes.

The RMR test and the DEXA + RMR Combo must be done fasted and without exercise for 4 hours before testing. Fasted means no food, caffeine, caloric beverages or tobacco products for 4 hours. Take your medication as normal on the day of testing.

Wear loose-fitting, light clothing such as workout apparel.

Yes. You will be asked to remove large pieces of metal, such as fitness trackers, jewelry and glasses, during DEXA scans because they can affect test results. Small pieces of jewelry will have minimal impact on the DEXA if they cannot be removed.

Yes. You can wear a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) during testing.

Medical devices and implants such as pacemakers, joint replacements and breast implants are generally safe to test with. If you have questions, we suggest getting permission from your physician. Implants can sometimes affect bone density results.

You will receive a T-score and a Z-score for your overall bone density, not for individual sites such as the lumbar spine or femur. Bone mineral density numbers are for informational, non-diagnostic purposes.

Reports are delivered and reviewed immediately during your testing session. Exceptions can apply for customers sent directly from Bodymass business partners, who have their reports reviewed separately.

You can reschedule using the link at the bottom of your appointment confirmation email, or by calling or emailing your Bodymass location.

Appointments rescheduled within 24 hours of their scheduled time incur a $20 fee. Appointments that are missed or cancelled after the appointment time incur a $50 fee. You will retain your appointment for rebooking.