How to Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI)

BMI, or Body Mass Index, is used to approximate your body fat. It is also used to determine if you are at higher risk for health problems. Learn to calculate your BMI quickly and easily.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. You will first need to measure your height in inches, as well as calculate your weight in pounds.

2. Now that you know your height and weight, you are ready to calculate your BMI. You may want to use a calculator.

3. First, multiply your weight in pounds by 703.
   *Example: 120lbs X 703= 84,360

4. Next, you will need to take your height in inches and square it. In case you are not familiar with what it means to "square" a number, you multiply the number by itself.
   *Example: 68 inches X 68 inches= 4624

5. Now you will want to divide your first number by the second number.
   *Example: 83,360/4624 = 18.2
   In this example, 18.2 is the Body Mass Index based on this person's height and weight. Below you will see what the BMI tells you about your body.

6. Underweight 15 to 18.4
   Normal 18.5 to 22.9
   Overweight 23 to 27.5
   Obese 27.6 to 40
   Morbidly Obese Over 40

Resources

• Understand Body Mass Index

[sonni57]

on 4/8/2009 Good directions on how to calculate your BMI.

[woot]

on 2/25/2009 Good information. I'll have to force myself to do this sometime!

[AmyRose]

on 2/24/2009 Very clear instructions, thanks! 5*