How To Figure Your Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation used to estimate body fat percentage based on height and weight. While it can be a useful tool in some situations, it is not a perfect indicator of health. BMI does not take into account body composition, so muscular individuals may have a higher BMI even if they have a low body fat percentage. BMI can be used as a preliminary screening tool to identify individuals who may be at risk for health problems related to body weight, such as obesity. 

To figure your BMI take the number 703 x your weight, divided by your height in inches squared. Mine would be 703 x 170 divided by 70 inches squared is 4900. So 703 x 170 divided by 4900 is a BMI of 24.38.

A BMI of less than 18.5 is considered underweight

18.5 - 24.9 is healthy

25 - 29.9 is overweight

30 - 34.9 is obese

35 - 39.9 is obese II

40 or greater is obese III

BMI is a good place to start to see if you have a healthy weight or maybe need to consult a doctor, nutritionist or dietician. As mentioned, many athletes have a higher BMI due to more muscle mass.

Getting proper sleep, the right amount of water each day, eating the right nutritional foods in moderate portions and exercising at least 30 minutes a day with a mix of cardio and weights is a good place to start if you are overweight or obese.