ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the main principle behind Air Displacement Plethysmography?

1. Measurement of water displacement

2. The same principle as hydrostatic weighing

3. Utilization of magnetic resonance imaging

4. The use of bioelectrical signals

The correct answer is: The same principle as hydrostatic weighing

The main principle behind Air Displacement Plethysmography (ADP) is based on determining body composition through the measurement of air displaced by a person's body when they are seated in a chamber. This technique operates on the concept of buoyancy, which is similar to hydrostatic weighing that uses water displacement to gauge volume and density. In ADP, the amount of air displaced when a person occupies the chamber provides information on their body volume, from which body density can be calculated. Knowing the density allows for the estimation of body composition, distinguishing between fat mass and lean mass. This method is highly precise and typically used because it can be more comfortable and convenient than hydrostatic weighing, especially for individuals who may have difficulty with water immersion. The other options do not pertain to the principles of Air Displacement Plethysmography. For instance, while water displacement is related to hydrostatic weighing, it does not apply to ADP. Similarly, magnetic resonance imaging and bioelectrical impedance analysis (which involves bioelectrical signals) are entirely different methodologies used for assessing body composition and do not share the same principles as ADP.