Frequently Asked Questions

Both determine a measurement distribution profile, somatotype and 5 components, but those components are different. The ENFA method determines Fat Mass, Skeletal Mass, Muscle Mass, Visceral Mass and Residual Mass. The Kerr method determines skin, Fat Mass, Skeletal Mass, Muscle Mass and Residual or Visceral Mass.

The Kerr method treats Residual and Visceral as synonyms and its fifth component is Skin. In the ENFA method, the fifth component is Residual Mass (not a synonym of Visceral) and corresponds to excess fluid in the form of edema or water retention.

The ENFA method is the only one that determines the Nutritional Diagnosis based on the Protein Reserve and the Caloric Reserve, a concept created by Dr. Basaluzzo.

In addition, in the calculation of Fat Mass, the ENFA method has an R correction factor for subjects who differ from the Phantom's Weight/Height. The Kerr method modified the Skeletal Mass calculation of the original method. That is why the results of the two methods are different and not comparable.

Bioimpedance determines only 2 components: Fat Mass and Lean Mass (Lean Mass is not a synonym of Muscle Mass), obtained from the difference in the conduction speed of a low-voltage electrical current. The results are influenced by body temperature, respiratory rate, physical activity, the menstrual cycle and even the ambient temperature. For this reason, it is not reproducible. In other words, this method could be useful for calculating those 2 components in male subjects (because they have little water retention) and with a low amount of fat mass.

To implement the method correctly, it is crucial to apply the measurement technique accurately and in a standardized way. We therefore suggest taking part in at least 2 hands-on workshops before using the method in your practice.

Becoming a good anthropometrist requires not only learning how to measure, but also practicing continuously and maintaining standardization over time.

To obtain the ENFA® Method certification, you need to meet the following requirements:

1. Take the ENFA Online Course: Complete the theory course to acquire the knowledge you need about the method.
2. Attend 2 in-person measurement workshops: In the workshops you will be supervised while measuring and will practice taking body measurements.
3. Submit reports: Send 30 reports (from the ENFA program Excel file) to the ENFA® Reference Professional of the country where you live.
4. Pay the exam fee, which costs 150 US dollars.
5. Pass the exam, which consists of questions about the method and the defense of one of the 30 reports you submitted.
6. You obtain the ENFA method Certification, which is valid for 5 years.

No, you first need to complete the ENFA theory course in order to properly understand the fundamentals of the method. Once you have finished it, you will be able to enroll in the ENFA Clinic and ENFA Care courses to continue your training in the method.