Body mass index, or BMI, is an estimate of body fatness in men, women and children. It is based on your height and weight. Although women can generally have a slightly higher body fat concentration than men and still remain within the healthy category, BMI is calculated and interpreted the same way for both adult men and women. It's important for men to adhere to the basic BMI guidelines to reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases, such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
BMI Range
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers four BMI categories: underweight, normal, overweight and obese. The goal is to fall within the normal category. Underweight is considered having a BMI below 18.5. A normal BMI falls between 18.5 and 24.9 on the BMI scale. The overweight category starts at 25 and goes up to 29.9 on the BMI scale. Men who have a higher BMI -- 30 or over -- are considered to fall within the obese category.
BMI Calculation
Determining your BMI requires that you know your height and body weight. Start by dividing your weight in lbs. by your height in inches squared. Take that answer and multiply it by a factor of 703 to reach your BMI score. For example, a 6 ft. tall, 180 lb. man would determine his BMI like this: 160 x (72 x 72) = 0.03 x 703 = a BMI of 21.09. This man would fall within the normal BMI category.
BMI Limitations
While calculating your BMI can provide you with a good estimate of whether you need to lose weight or not, it does have its limitations. For instance, male athletes that have a high concentration of muscle mass may have BMIs that fall within the overweight or obese categories. In this case, BMI does not provide an accurate depiction of body fatness. Another limitation is the difference in actual body fatness between men and women with the same BMI. According to the CDC, women tend to have higher concentrations of fat when compared to men who have the same BMI.
Lowering BMI
If you find yourself in the overweight or obese BMI categories, there are simple lifestyle changes you can make to get down to a healthier BMI. Cut back on sugary foods and drinks, like soda, and other high-calorie snacks that contribute empty calories to your diet. Choose lower-calorie alternatives whenever possible. Also, exercise on a daily basis, even if it's just becoming more active by turning off the TV and doing housework, walking the dog or playing with the kids. Men can also burn fat by lifting weights or playing their favorite sports on a regular basis.
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