What Is the Formula for Figuring BMI?
BMI stands for body mass index and is an estimated measurement of body fat. Though it is widely used, it is simplistic in nature and only parallels fatness rather than being a direct measure. Since the index is calculated based on a person's mass divided by height, the numbers will often be overstated in those with a high muscle ratio such as athletes.
How is BMI Calculated?
The BMI is calculated in kilograms and is formulated by taking your weight and dividing by your height squared.
Example: You weigh 63 kg and your height is 1.675 m (140lbs. /5'7")
63/1.675² =
63/2.806 =
BMI=22.45
Pounds and Inches Conversion
To calculate BMI in pounds in inches you need to convert the formula. To do this you need to multiply your pounds by 0.45 and your inches by 0.025.
Example: You weigh 140 lbs. and your height is 5'7" (63kg 1.675 m)
140 lbs x 0.45 = 63kg
5' 7" = 67" x 0.025=1.675m
63/1.675² =
63/2.806 =
BMI=22.45
Target BMI
A healthy BMI ranges between 19-25. The example above demonstrates a height to weight ratio that is within the healthy range according to the body mass index.
BMI For Adults Widget
Calculate your BMI with this handy calculator offered by the US Center for Disease Control.
The EXtension TOXicology NETwork"HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR BODY MASS INDEX OR BMI"http://extoxnet.orst.edu
Britannica Online Encyclopedia"Body Mass Index (BMI)"http://www.britannica.com
"What Is the Formula for Figuring BMI?." Sophisticated Edge. N.p., n.d. Web. . <http://www.sophisticatededge.com/what-is-the-formula-for-figuring-bmi.html>.
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