How to Calculate Your BMI (Body Mass Index)

The Body Mass Index, commonly known as the BMI is a tool used to help determine whether you are overweight, underweight or a proper weight for your height. It is a fairly reliable source for the majority of the population; but please realize those who have tremendous muscle mass can be inaccurately assessed due to the fact that muscle weighs three times the amount of fat.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Accurate scale, pen & paper, calculator

1. Take the most accurate weight measurement you can (following formula is calculated in pounds).
2. Square your height in inches (multiply the number by itself, for instance, a 5'4" woman would multiply 64 x 64).
3. Divide your weight in pounds by your squared height total.
4. Take that figure and multiply it by 703. This is your current BMI.
5. To rate your BMI:
   Underweight = <18.5
   Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
   Overweight = 25-29.9
   Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

Tips & Warnings

• As mentioned before, if you are involved in a weight training program and have a low body fat percentage but large muscle mass, this is not an accurate assessment of your health. Consider a 6' man who does not work out weighs 210 pounds and has 35% body fat versus a 6' bodybuilder who weighs the same but has 11% body fat. They would both have a BMI of 28.5, which is overweight by the previous guidelines. If, however, you are just a weekend warrior at the gym, this may be a good way to see if what you are currently doing to improve your health and fitness is working. If you find this formula too complicated, you can find an instant BMI calculator at www.moblessed.perfectbodyshape.com
• If you determine that you are in need of an exercise program because your BMI is too high, please consult your health professional before starting a fitness program.