The body mass index, or BMI, measurement is a number calculated from your height and weight. You can use BMI as a tool to identify possible weight problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, the BMI measurement is a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is inexpensive and easy to use. BMI measurements fall into four categories: underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese. The CDC reports that being in the underweight, overweight or obese categories may indicate the need for further tests to determine whether your weight is a health concern.
Step 1
Calculate your height in inches squared. Square your height by multiplying it by itself. For example, if your height is 67 inches, squaring it would be 67 multiplied by 67.
Step 2
Divide your weight, in pounds, by your height squared.
Step 3
Multiply the result from step 2 by the conversion factor 703. Write down your result. This is your BMI.
Step 4
Classify your BMI by using a classification chart. You can find a BMI classification chart on the CDC's website and other online sources.
Tips and Warnings
- Writing down your result after each step can help you make sure you don't forget any numbers or calculations.
- The National Institutes of Health reports that BMI is only one method used to measure risk of disease. It also recommends measuring waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio and checking other risk factors for obesity-related diseases, such as high blood pressure and physical inactivity.
Things You'll Need
- Calculator
- Pencil or pen
- Paper
- BMI classification chart
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