Body mass index is a useful tool to determine the body fat percentage in men. With more than two-thirds of U.S. adults overweight or obese, excess body fat has become a major concern. It can lead to cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and certain forms of cancer. Knowing your BMI can tell you whether you are at an increased risk for any of these medical issues.
Features
BMI is the preferred method of body fat assessment for obese people. Skinfold calipers become inaccurate when measuring large amounts of body fat, but BMI is easy to perform. It is calculated by dividing your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. Multiply the result by 703.
Categories
Once you have your result, you can determine which weight category you fall into. If your BMI is below 18-1/2, you are considered underweight. If your result is 18.5 to 24.9, you are at a normal weight. BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 is overweight. Anything 30.0 and up is considered obese.
Considerations
This BMI calculation is not accurate for growing children or some types of athletes. Athletes tend to have more muscle mass and higher bone density than the average male. Bodybuilders, football players and some track athletes can easily have BMIs of 25.0 or higher. Other methods of testing will show that their body fat percentage is in the healthful range.
Function
When your weight is in a normal range, your body function is optimal. Your joints don't have to accommodate excess strain. You can breathe easier because you do not have as much intra-abdominal fat putting pressure on your heart and lungs. Your heart will not have to work as hard and your blood pressure will likely be lower. Cholesterol levels also tend to be lower so your arteries are clear of fat deposits. Your circulation is better and your quality of life will likely improve.
Prevention/Solution
Men overall tend to have less body fat and more lean muscle tissue than women. Resistance training can help you maintain or increase the amount of lean tissue you have. This will raise your metabolism and help control your weight. Cardiovascular exercise performed regularly decreases your body fat levels and keeps your heart healthy. Exercise regularly to keep your BMI in a healthful, normal range.
References
- "Essentials of Strength and Conditioning"; National Strength and Conditioning Association; 2008
- "ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription"; American College of Sports Medicine; 2010
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Weight--It's Not a diet, It's a Lifestyle
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