The body mass index, or BMI, is a measure of your body composition based on your height and weight. In healthy adults, the normal range is 19 to 25. Below 19 is considered underweight, and 25 to 30 is considered overweight. Individuals over 30 are considered obese. The BMI is an indicator of body fat, but it may not be accurate for all people. For example, athletes, who have more muscle mass, may have high BMI ratings.
Step 1
Weigh yourself with the scale first thing in the morning and as close to naked as possible. Divide your weight by 2.2. As an example, 160 lbs. divided by 2.2 equals 72.7kg.
Step 2
Remove your shoes and stand with your back against a wall. Your shoulders, hips and the back of your head should touch the wall. Stand tall and put the flat end of the ruler on top of your head so that end touches the wall.
Step 3
Use masking tape or a grease pencil to mark the spot where the ruler touches the wall.
Step 4
Put the end of the tape measure on the floor and run the tape up the wall to the mark on the wall.
Step 5
Multiply your height by 2.54 and divide the result by 100. As an example, 70 inches multiplied by 2.54 equals 175.26, and 175.26 divided by 100 equals 1.78m. Multiply your height by itself: 1.78 multiplied by 1.78 equals 3.17m.
Step 6
Divide the final weight number by the final height number: 72.7 divided by 3.17 equals a BMI of 23.
Things You'll Need
- Ruler
- Masking tape or grease pencil
- Measuring tape
- Scale
- Calculator
References
- "Personal Trainer Manual"; American Council on Exercise; 2000
- "Physiology of Sport and Exercise"; Jack H. Wilmore, PhD. & David L. Costill, PhD.; 1999
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