We explore recent advances in the field of body composition measurement that could be suitable for use in low-resource settings across the life-course. Our aim was three-fold: (i) to review the available literature and information on both current and novel technologies for body composition measurement, (ii) to present a decision schema that may assist in selecting the appropriate body composition technology, and (iii) which of the technologies available are suitable for low-resource settings based on cost, infrastructure needed, participant compliance needed for the measurement, quality assurance protocols in place, safety, accuracy of measurement and training required.