Understanding Body Mass Index

Body mass index, or BMI, is a generalized ratio that is used to estimate the health of your body. People can easily calculate their own BMI to get a basic idea of their body fat level. You can look at a chart of BMIs to see if you are considered underweight, normal, overweight, or obese.

Although the BMI can provide you with an estimate of your body fat, it is definitely not the only way to calculate your overall health. At B4 Health and Fitness, nutritionists and personal trainers know that it is important to look at other factors to get a more accurate picture of your health, such as endurance, strength, and blood pressure. To receive a comprehensive fitness assessment from a Chicago certified personal trainer, contact B4 Health and Fitness today at 773-251-4619.

How to Calculate BMI

Although you can figure out your BMI using certain websites, it is better to calculate the ratio yourself to know that it is correct. To determine BMI, take your weight in pounds, and divide it by your height in inches, squared. Then, multiply the entire number by 703.

Body Mass Index Categories

Once you find your BMI, you can get a general idea of your overall body fatness. The categories of BMI are:

<18.5 – underweight

18.5-24.9 – normal

25.0-29.9 – overweight

>29.9 – obese

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Keep in mind that your BMI may tell you that you fall in a healthy weight range, but it does not reflect upon your actual fitness level. For example, you can be extremely muscular, but your BMI may show that you are overweight. For a more exact way of assessing your true health status, as well as help in reaching your health goals, contact a Chicago nutritionist and personal trainer from B4 Health and Fitness at 773-251-4619 today.