2. Body Mass Index

Another guide to determining whether you are over weight is your Body Mass Index (BMI).

Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to decide whether your weight is within a reasonable range for your height. Your BMI figure is your weight (kg) divided by your height2 (m).

WEIGHT (kg) / HEIGHT (m) = BMI

The Body Mass Index is therefore a widely used simple method for classifying overweight and obesity and thus assessing an individual's health risk. A value of between 20-25 is OK, higher than this and a programme of balancing physical activity with food and drink to lose weight should be the first element of a 'get fit campaign'.

An excess of body fat is the most common cause of a high BMI. However the body mass index is limited for sports people. Sports people may be very muscular and therefore the index is raised, although the actual body fat percentage may be quite small.

BMI Ranges

• < 20 Underweight - more food may be needed. In cases of very low weight a Doctor should be consulted.
• 20-24.9 Healthy weight - correct energy balance is being maintained through amount of food eaten and amount of physical activity undertaken.
• 25-29.9 Overweight - some loss of weight might be beneficial to health
• 30-39.9 Obese - there is a need to lose weight
• > 40 Very obese - there is an urgent need to lose weight

Individuals with a BMI greater than 30 are at increased risk of health problems. The health problems associated with being overweight and obesity include: -

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Certain types of cancer
• Diabetes

Being overweight also increases the strain on joints and can also lead to lower back problems.

1. The Measuring Tape Test
3. Body Fat