Fit3D vs DEXA Scan: What’s the Best Body Fat Test for You?

Two Powerful Tools — But Built for Different Goals

If you’re researching body fat testing, you’ve probably come across DEXA scans and Fit3D scans. Both are high-tech, and both promise detailed insight into your body composition.

But they’re not the same. One is a medical-grade diagnostic tool, the other is a fitness and progress-tracking solution.

At Excel Health & Fitness in Manteca, we offer Fit3D because it works for real people looking to make healthy, sustainable changes, without the hospital price tag or being exposed to radiation.

Here’s how they compare.

What’s a DEXA Scan?

DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a medical imaging test originally used to assess bone density. It’s also extremely precise at measuring:

  • Body fat percentage

  • Lean muscle mass

  • Fat distribution

  • Bone mineral content

But it’s only available in medical or research settings. You’ll typically need to schedule an appointment at a clinic or radiology center.

What’s a Fit3D Scan?

Fit3D is a non-medical, 3D body scanning system that uses infrared cameras to measure:

  • Body shape and circumference

  • Body fat estimate

  • Posture and symmetry

  • Visual changes over time

It creates a private 3D model of your body and tracks changes between scans, all in less than a minute.

Fit3D vs DEXA: How They Compare

Accuracy

  • DEXA: Highly precise for clinical measurement

  • Fit3D: Great for consistent tracking and visual change

Availability

  • DEXA: Requires a medical clinic or research center

  • Fit3D: Available at Excel Health & Fitness — no referral needed

Comfort

  • DEXA: Lie still on a table for 6 to 10 minutes

  • Fit3D: Stand on a rotating platform for 60 seconds

Cost

  • DEXA: $75 to $150+ per scan

  • Fit3D: $35 for Excel members, $49 for non-members

Best For

  • DEXA: Medical use, clinical accuracy, or specific diagnoses

  • Fit3D: Ongoing fitness tracking, non-medical progress, visual change

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re:

  • Diagnosed with a bone condition

  • Needing exact fat/muscle breakdown for a medical reason

  • Willing to spend $100+ for a single snapshot

Then DEXA might be worth it.

But if you want:

  • A consistent, affordable way to track your body

  • Clear visuals and data to stay motivated

  • Something easy to repeat every month

Then Fit3D is the smarter long-term tool.

Why We Use Fit3D at Excel

Most of our members don’t need a medical diagnosis. They just want to:

  • See if their hard work is paying off

  • Watch their shape change month to month

  • Get motivated by real, visual proof

That’s exactly what Fit3D delivers, without the high cost or clinic vibe.