What Is BMI?...How Important Is It?

Simply put, your Body Mass Index or BMI is a measure of Body Fat based on height and weight. The body mass index is one method that doctors use to determine if an individual is at a healthy weight.

Too much fat located at your waist puts you at higher Risk For Health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Waist circumference and body mass index are indirect ways to assess your body composition.

Body Mass Index = Your Body Mass

So the question is, is this important.. ?

BMI only measures bodyweight compared to your height. So a muscular individual who has a very low Body Fat will show up as being obese and unhealthy. At the same time another individual who has very little muscle mass and a high level of bodyfat may show up on the BMI as ideal and healthy.

The Formula for Calculating your Body Mass Index is as follows:

English - [Weight in pounds / Height in inches / Height in inches] x 703

Calculate you Body Mass Index (BMI)

Free BMI Script by BMI-Club

BMI Formula

Body Mass Index

Normal weight 19–24
Over weight 25–29
Obesity I 30–34
Obesity II 35–39

Averages For Men

Athlete <10%
Lean 10-15%
Normal 15-18%
Above Average 18-20%
Over-weight 20-25%
Obese 25+%

Averages For Women

Athlete <17%
Lean 17-22%
Normal 22-25%
Above Average 25-29%
Over-weight 29-35%
Obese 35+%

Remember the best way to lower your BMI is with proper Diet and Exercise.

If you have too much fat — especially if a lot of it is located at your waist — you're at higher risk for health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, and consequently heart disease and stroke. Waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) are indirect ways to assess your body composition.

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What Is BMI?...How Important Is It?