The lab was established for both teaching and research. Analysis of body composition is available for students, faculty and area residents, who have a prescription from their doctors requesting the analysis. The equipment is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration so a physician must prescribe its use. Haub also anticipates interest from athletes, coaches and others who want to know detailed information about their body composition. The measurement of body fat is more accurate than body weight for assessing health status.
Muscle is mostly water and on a volume basis weighs more than fat.
Haub likened the machine to a photocopier. It is completely open, so there is zero chance of anyone experiencing claustrophobia. The test itself will take about five minutes, with a total appointment time of about 20 minutes. Haub's research interests are the influence of nutrition and exercise on disease prevention and human performance with emphasis on myocellular metabolism in older adults and athletes. Specific areas of interest include insulin resistance and diabetes, and endurance performance.