The Body Mass Index is calculated using a person's height and weight. It is a tool used by health and fitness professionals to determine body fat levels and overall health. Depending on your BMI, you may be classified as underweight, normal, overweight or obese. However, the BMI fails to differentiate between lean muscle mass and fat, so it may not always be a reliable indicator of fitness. Consult your doctor after calculating your BMI number to determine your exact state of health through further assessment.
Step 1
Weigh yourself on a scale. Write down your weight on a piece of paper.
Step 2
Measure yourself and write down your height in inches. For example, if a person is 5 feet 9 inches, their height in inches would be 69.
Step 3
Multiply your height in inches by itself. In this example, you would multiply 69 by 69, which would equal 4,761.
Step 4
Divide your weight by your squared height. If you are 5 foot 9 and weigh 180 lbs., you would would divide 4,761 by 180. The quotient would be 0.037.
Step 5
Multiply 703 by your quotient. In this example, 703 times 0.037 equals 26.5. The BMI here would be 26.5, which is considered in the overweight range.
Step 6
Compare your BMI with the Centers for Disease Control BMI classification system. A BMI below 18.5 is underweight. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. Any number over 30 is considered obese.
Things You'll Need
- Scale
- Calculator
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