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How Body Mass Index
Works - Set Your Weight Loss Goals |
by:
Robb
Ksiazek |
Many people want to lose a
few of those annoying pounds, but they just don't know where to
start. If only there was some sort of guide that would help
dieters to set goals. Body mass index, or BMI, creates an
opportunity for weight loss enthusiasts to determine their ideal
body weight in order to set their goals.
The index uses
your body height and weight to determine problem areas in your
weight. Underweight, normal, overweight, and obese are the
categories the index uses for classification. The categories
have their individual implications as regarded to health and
wellbeing.
How is BMI Calculated?
BMI calculations use a simple formula that can be figured
with a traditional calculator, or pen and paper for that matter.
The body mass index formula = kg/m2. In layman's terms, your
weight in kilograms is divided by your height in meters squared.
The customary or English measurement formula = (lb/in2) x 703 or
weight in pounds divided by height in inches squared all
multiplied by 703. It's really not as complicated as it sounds.
Try it for yourself.
Interpreting the Index - What it
all Means
Your BMI calculation will produce an index
somewhere between 14 and 30 or so. You will be categorized as
follows:
Below 18.5= Underweight
18.5 - 24.9 =
Normal
25.0 - 29.9 = Overweight
30 and Above=Obese
Some BMI charts will break the categories down even further, but
this table is the most common.
Children's body mass index takes age and maturity into
account.
The index for body mass was created to evaluate
the level of risk associated with chronic health problems. There
is a direct link to your BMI and certain serious health
conditions, such as: heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and
high cholesterol.
There are some drawbacks to body mass
calculation as every person is different. Common sense should be
used to evaluate the findings, even those who fall in the middle
of a specified range of the index. Those with more athletic
builds and leaner builds certainly need to understand the
objectivity of BMI. Even though there is some grey area, body
mass indexing is still quite useful.
Goal Setting and
the Index
The index is useful on a variety of fronts,
but the major application is weight control. Those with a low
body weight should get it up into the normal range, as those
with excessive weight should bring it down. Those that are on
the cusp of the trouble areas can probably do well on their own,
while those closer to the extreme should consult a medical
doctor. Health professionals are well equipped to get you on the
right program and give you the best advice for your individual
situation.
If your plans are to begin some sort of
diet and exercise routine, your ultimate goal should leave
you in the normal range. Goal setting is important in weight
loss as in many other arenas, but your body requires some
special consideration. It's the only one you have.
An
ideal weight goal is necessary to have, but if it is the only
one, you may become discouraged with your progress. Setting and
meeting intermediate goals give the inspiration that it takes to
get to the next step. Fitness and weight loss don't happen
overnight, no matter how hard you try. Taking measured steps
with frequent evaluation ensures that you are making progress.
About the Author
Robb Ksiazek is a successful author and publisher for
Body-Mass-Index-4U.com. He performs ongoing research on dieting, weight
loss, and an overall healthy lifestyle incorporating mind, body, and soul. He
strives to share this information for all to enjoy. |
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