Weight is Determined
Weight in pounds is first determined by stepping on a scale with no shoes and all bulky clothing such as heavy jackets removed. Weight in pounds is then recorded and multiplied by 703. This new number is recorded and will serve as the top portion of the equation for determining body mass index.
Height is Determined
Height must be determined in inches for the body mass index calculation. If only height in feet and inches is known, it can be converted to all inches by multiplying each foot by 12 inches. If height is not known at all it can be measured with a measuring tape.
Height is Squared
Height in inches must be multiplied it by itself (squared). For instance, if a person who is 67 inches would square their height in inches and would get 4,489. That number is then recorded and becomes the bottom portion of the equation for body mass index.
Dividing Weight and Height
Finally the weight multiplied by 703 is divided by the height in inches squared. The mathematical formula is:
BMI = weight (lbs.) X 703
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height (in.) X height (in.)
BMI Can be Analyzed
After body mass index is calculated it can be determined if the person is overweight.. If a person's BMI is under 18.5, they are considered to be underweight. If it is between 18.5 to 24.9 their weight is in a healthy range. Those with BMIs from 25.0 to 29.9 are overweight and those with BMIs of 30 or above are considered obese.
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