How to Determine Your Body Mass Index
Body mass index (BMI) is often used to determine whether a person is at risk for weight-related health problems. It is one of many ways to determine your ideal weight.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Weight Charts
- Calculators
- Measuring Tapes
- Scales
- Pencils
- Spiral Notebooks
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1
Grab a calculator, pencil and piece of paper.
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2
Understand that the formula for BMI = weight ÷ (height x height). Weight is represented in kilograms; height is represented in meters.
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3
Determine your weight in kilograms. To do this, divide your weight (in pounds) by 2.2. For example, 150 lbs ÷ 2.2 = 68.2 kilograms. Write this number on your paper.
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4
Determine your height in meters by dividing your height (in inches) by 39.37. Know that there are 12 inches in 1 foot. For example, 64 inches ÷ 39.37 = 1.626 meters.
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5
Square your height in meters. In other words, multiply your height times itself. For example: 1.626 meters x 1.626 meters = 2.644 meters. Write this number on your piece of paper.
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6
Divide your answer from number 3 by your answer for number 6. In this example, 68.2 kilograms ÷ 2.644 meters = 25.79. This number represents your BMI.
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1
Tips & Warnings
In general, a BMI of 20-25 is considered ideal. A BMI over 30 is considered obese.
BMI is just one way of determining whether you are at risk for weight-related health problems. There are many other factors a health or fitness professional can evaluate for you.
It is highly recommended that you have your percentage of body fat measured by a health or fitness professional. There are several methods to determine body fat percentage, including calipers, bioelectrical impedance and underwater weighing.
Check with your health care provider before beginning a weight-loss program.
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Comments
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Nov 22, 2005
even if your bmi is too low or too high, unless you know you're overweight, you should get a second opinion. -
Nov 22, 2005
even if your bmi is too low or too high, unless you know you're overweight, you should get a second opinion.