My Fitness

Body Mass Index

BMI is the Body Mass Index and is used by physicians to calculate one's risk for diseases associated with obesity. BMI is only one of several tools used to determine overall health and risk for disease and is not intended as medical advise without interpretation of results and other assessment methods.

The following formula is used to calculate one's BMI:
(Weight in pounds x 703) / ( (Height in inches) X (Height in inches))

BMI > 17 underweight
BMI 18-24 weight appropriate
BMI 25-29 overweight
BMI > 30 obese

Obesity, or being overweight, will increase the risk of illness and death due to diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, and kidney and gallbladder disorders. Obesity has also been linked to an increased risk for some cancers. Genetics can also play a part in the development of obesity. Children of obese parents are 10 times more likely to be obese themselves.

Multiple studies have conclusively shown that the higher the BMI over 25 the higher the mortality and disease rates. The good news is that healthy eating and exercise and small changes in weight (as little as 10-15% of total body weight loss) can make a significant difference to one's health.

Limitations of the BMI:

• BMI does not distinguish between fat mass and fat free mass. For example, a healthy BMI does not necessarily mean that body fat is within a healthy range.
• The BMI overestimates body fat in athletes and in those with a muscular build.
• It underestimates body fat in older people and in others who have lost muscle.
• Different races need different BMI overweight thresholds. Asians need a lower BMI cutoff while black Americans probably need a higher BMI cutoff.

If you have further questions about your BMI call Ann Chapman, a registered dietitian at Student Health Services at 864-9575, or make an appointment with one of the Student Health Services physicians for a more in- depth discussion of your weight and health status.

BMI Links:

BMI Calculator
Find your Body Mass Index.

Health Calculator
Provides a weight, daily requirements, and heart calculations.

Healthy Living Calculator
Different calculators to help you ascertain your fitness data.