Women should reach and maintain a healthy body weight to decrease obesity-related health risks and stay in good physical shape. Women typically carry more fat than men because they are able to bear children. There is a standard way to determine your ideal body weight.
Measurement
To determine your ideal weight, use the body mass index system. Body mass index, or BMI, is usd by medical professionals to advise patients about their weight. BMI analyzes the ratio between your height and your weight. It's a simple mathematical equation, and measuring yourself only requires a scale and measuring tape. While BMI calculation is different between sexes for children and teens, men and women over 20 use the same BMI system.
Calculation
To calculate your body mass index, divide your current weight in pounds by your height in inches, squared. Multiply that value by 703. The calculation should provide you with a number that typically ranges from 18.5 to somewhere in the 30s.
Translation
Once you have your BMI number, determine your weight class category by comparing the score to a BMI category chart. Those who score below 18.5 are considered underweight. Ideal body mass index scores range from 18.5 to 24.9. Scores of 25 to 29.9 would place you in the overweight category, and any score of 30 or above means you're considered obese. There are websites that provide charts to instantly determine your personal ideal weight based on your height. The Rush University Medical Center provides such a chart.
Significance
If you don't fall into the ideal weight category, you may be at risk for weight related health issues. Those who score in the overweight or obese categories are at an increased risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and hypertension. If your BMI indicates that you're underweight or overweight, visit your medical professional to be analyzed further.
Considerations
Body mass index fails to distinguish among different body makeups. Women with a significant amount of muscle mass may score in the overweight or obese categories because of their higher overall weight, despite having a healthy body fat percentage.
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