Body Mass Index Calculator: What is BMI?

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index, or BMI, is used to determine whether an individual is the correct weight for his or her height. It is a fairly accurate way to determine if you are overweight. Your BMI is determined by the following formula: [weight (in pounds) divided by height squared (in inches), then this number multiplied by 703] or (w / h²) x 703.

Enter your measurements in the BMI Calculator by the CDC (bottom of page) and find your Body Mass Index.

BMI Chart

Find your BMI below to determine if your weight is within a healthy range.

18.5 or less = Underweight

18.5 to 24.9 = Normal

25 to 29.9 = Overweight

30 or more = Obese

BMI is a good starting point to determine what your weight should be; however, if you are exercising regularly it will lose accuracy as you gain muscle mass. Using BMI, for example, you may be considered as overweight and have less fat on your body than someone who is underweight. The reason is that it is based entirely on weight and height. In other words, a person in the normal range who gains 20 pounds of muscle would be labeled as overweight.

Body Fat Measuring Device

Use a bio-electrical impedance analysis device (body fat measuring device) to track gains in muscle and fat loss when exercising. It's better than using scales, especially if you are trying to lose weight and want to track your progress. A bio-electrical impedance analysis device measures the percentage of fat in your body.

If you are working out regularly, trying to lose weight (fat), your bathroom scales are going to be very discouraging and deceptive as well. For example, you may have worked out all week, lost 2 pounds of fat, and show no weight loss on your scales. The reason – you gained two pounds of muscle. How will you know when this is the case if you are using scales and BMI charts?

Many gyms have body fat measuring devices available for use, free of charge. Basically, you grab the device (after entering your age, height, and weight) and the device sends a weak electrical signal through your body. The resistance measured by the device is directly related to the amount of fat, or fat percentage, in your body. A healthy percentage for men is 15% and 25% for women.

Suggested Reading

J.B. Rhetting, “Effective Bodybuilding and Weightlifting Supplements: Which Sports Supplements Actually Build Muscle,” Associated Content from Yahoo

J.B. Rhetting, “Benefits of Sports Nutrition Supplements: Supplements that Increase Cardio and Muscle Endurance when Training,” Associated Content from Yahoo

J.B. Rhetting, “How to Calculate Target Heart Rate: Cardio for Beginners,” Associated Content from Yahoo

Sources

“About BMI for Adults,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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