Body mass index (BMI) is a measurement of your height relative to your weight. It's one of the simplest measurements you can make to determine body fat, and is therefore widely used. It does have limitations, however, and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute guidelines indicate that BMI should be used in conjunction with measuring waist circumference and taking into account any additional risk factors. Combined, these three predictors can help determine the risk of developing diseases related to being overweight and obese.
Step 1
Measure your height. Take your shoes off and stand on a non-carpeted surface with your feet together and arms by your side. With your head and chin level, use a hardback book or other flat object to make a right angle with the top of your head; mark this on the wall (it's easier if you have someone to do it for you). Use a tape measure to measure the distance to the nearest 0.1cm (1/8 of an inch).
Step 2
Weigh yourself on a digital scale placed on a flat, firm surface. Stand on the scale and plant your feet slightly apart. Note the weight either in kilograms or pounds to the nearest decimal fraction.
Step 3
Use an online BMI calculator like the one provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Enter your weight and height either in metric or standard terms to determine your BMI (see Resources).
Step 4
Perform the calculation manually. To calculate your BMI using metric measurements, use the following equation:
BMI = Weight (kilograms) / Height squared (meters).
For example, the BMI of a woman measuring 165cm and weighing 66kg is calculated as (66 ÷ 1.65²) = 24.2.
To calculate your BMI using standard measurements use the following equation:
BMI = (Weight (pounds) ÷ Height² (inches)) x 703.
For example, the BMI of a woman measuring 5 feet 6 inches and weighing 170 lbs. is calculated as (170 ÷ 66²) x 703= 27.4.
Step 5
Interpret the results. A BMI under 18.5 indicates you are underweight; a BMI between 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal. You are classed as overweight if your BMI is between 25 to 29.9, and obese if you have a BMI greater than 30. The latter reading increases your risk of developing conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Book
- Digital scales
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