How To Calculate Your Body Mass Index

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement tool that compares your height to your weight and gives you an indication of whether you are overweight, underweight or at a healthy weight for your height. For details on calculating your BMI manually, follow the steps below. [b][/b]Weigh & Measure 1. Weigh yourself on your bathroom scale.Note: the following formula is calculated in pounds. 2. Measure your height in inches using the yardstick or measuring tape. Stand against the wall and use a pencil to make a mark at the top of your head, then measure. Calculating Your BMI Manually 1. Use the pencil, paper and calculator to perform the following BMI calculation. 2. Take your height in inches and square the number. In other words, multiply the number of inches by the same number of inches. 3. Divide your weight in pounds by the second figure. The second figure is your height in inches squared. 4. Multiply that answer by the conversion factor of 703 if you used inches and pounds. Skip if you used meters and kilograms. The answer is your body mass index. BMI INTERPRETATIONS -A BMI of less than 18 means you are under weight. -A BMI of less than 18.5 indicates you are thin for your height. -A BMI between 18.6 and 24.9 indicates you are at a healthy weight. -A BMI between 25 and 29.9 suggests you are overweight for your height. -A BMI of 30 or greater indicates obesity. If you are obese, consider consulting a doctor or losing weight.