BMI is a measurement that gives you an idea of the amount of body fat you currently have based on your height and weight. Used to asses the general health of adult men and women, BMI is an abbreviation for body mass index. However, it is inaccurate when applied generally without regard for differing body frame sizes. Other factors that BMI does not address are muscle density or lean mass and both actually enhance health although they may result in a heavier overall body weight.
Determining Your BMI
Step 1
Weigh yourself and record your body weight in the unit of pounds.
Step 2
Write down your current height in inches. For example, a person who is 5 feet 1 inch tall has a total height in inches of 61.
Step 3
Find the square of the number in Step 2. Here is an example based on an individual whose height is 61 inches:
61 x 61 = 3721
Step 4
Divide your weight in pounds by the number in Step 3. Here is an example based on an individual weighing 135 pounds:
135 ÷ 3721 = 0.036
Step 5
Multiply the answer in Step 4 by 703. Here's an example:
.036 x 703 = 25.3
Know Your Frame Size
Step 1
Use a tape measure to determine the size of your wrist in inches. Record your measurement.
Step 2
Based upon the size of your wrist, see which category your body frame falls into:
WOMEN
Under 62 inches – If you have a large frame your wrist size is over 5.75"
62 - 65 inches – If you have a large frame your wrist size is over 6.25"
over 65 inches – If you have a large frame your wrist size is over 6.5"
MEN:
over 65 inches – If you have a large frame your wrist size is over 7.5"
Step 3
If your measurements show that you have a large frame, add 10% to the BMI calculated. For example, the ideal BMI range for a person with a large frame is approximately 23-25.
Tips and Warnings
- Below are healthy base BMI ranges. Increase by 10% if you have a large frame: BMI Below 18.5 = Underweight BMI 18.5 to 24.9 = Normal BMI 25.0 to 29.9 = Overweight BMI 30.0 and above = Obese
Things You'll Need
- Note paper
- Calculator
- Measuring tape
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