Definition
Lean body mass (LBM) is the total weight of the body minus all fat weight. It includes muscle, bone, organs and bodily fluids.
Explanation
- Skeletal muscle typically comprises about half of lean body mass in healthy adults. Water weight is also a major component.
- Women have about 10% less lean mass than men on average. But strength training reduces this gender lean mass gap.
- Higher lean body mass increases metabolism and caloric needs since it takes more energy to sustain muscle and organ tissues.
- DEXA scans provide the most accurate lean mass measurement. Bioelectrical impedance scales estimate LBM but have greater error.
Examples
- Determining an athlete has 85 lbs of lean mass and 8 lbs of fat mass = 93 lbs total.
- Gaining 5 lbs of muscle to increase lean body mass from weight training.
Related Terms
- Fat mass, fat-free mass, muscle mass, body composition
Common Questions
- How can I increase LBM? Follow a progressive lifting routine with sufficient protein intake.
- Does cardio or weight training increase LBM more? Resistance training builds muscle so it has greater effects on increasing lean mass.
Do Not Confuse With
- BMI – A screening tool that does not distinguish between lean and fat mass.
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