BMI (Body mass index)
August 9th, 2006
The BMI formula is an equation used to calculate Body Mass Index, a number which is referenced to evaluate a person’s health risk in reference to weight and height.
Everyone has a unique BMI number. Use the steps below to determine yours.
1. Multiply your weight in pounds by .45
2. Multiply your height in inches by .0254, then square the answer.
3. Divide step 1 by step 2. The resulting answer is your BMI.
Here is an example for a person who is five feet seven inches tall, and weights 135 pounds.
1. 135 pounds x .45 = 60.75
2. 67 inches x .0254 = 1.7, then 1.7 squared = 2.89
3. 60.75 / 2.89 = 21
The next step is to evaluate your BMI number with the following standards.
- Less than 18.5 – Underweight
- 18.5 – 24.9 – Normal
- 25 – 29.9 – Overweight
- 30 – 34.9 – Obesity class 1
- 35 – 39.9 – Obesity class 2
- 40 and greater – Obesity class 3
An easier alternative to the BMI Formula is the BMI Chart. Below is the BMI chart in inches and pounds.
To find your BMI, locate your height from the far left column, then move across the same row to your weight. The number at the top in the same column is your BMI.
The BMI Formula and BMI chart are supposedly more accurate weight evaluation methods than the older ideal height weight chart.
However, it still has its limitations. BMI still bases its calculations on the ideal that a person can accurately assess weight based on height.
Another limitation of the BMI is that it can overestimate in people who are more muscular than average, such as athletes. On the other extreme, it can underestimate body in people who have less muscle than average, such as the elderly.
Don’t rely solely on the BMI or ideal height weight chart. Instead, to get a more accurate assessment of your weight, consult a licensed health professional and get a body fat percentage test.
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