Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).These other tools can help complete the picture: “People’s average height and weight have also increased over the years, which further throws things off.”ĭempers and Mcdonough say you should take your BMI with a grain of salt if you are:Īdvertising Policy Five ways to measure your body fat (that aren’t BMI)ĭempers and Mcdonough say it’s best to view BMI as part of the puzzle. “At that time, they got most of their data from corpses, so that’s what healthy BMI ranges are based on,” says Dempers. BMIīMI is an old tool - it was developed almost two centuries ago. Check your weight classification in the BMI chart for men below. Health experts say a number between 18.5 to 24.9 is a healthy BMI for men. Weight in kilograms ÷ height 2 in meters = BMI (For example: 70 kilograms ÷ 1.7 meters 2 = 24.2). (Weight in pounds ÷ height 2 in inches) x 703 = BMI (For example: 150 pounds ÷ 65 inches 2 x 703 = 26.6). You can also use these formulas to calculate your BMI: To calculate your BMI, use this adult BMI calculator.

“It can motivate people to jump-start a healthier lifestyle,” he explains.Īdvertising Policy BMI calculator for men “Many physicians use it because it’s a quick, affordable assessment for the general population: average-sized people who don’t exercise regularly,” says Dempers.īMI gives a fairly accurate measurement of where people fall in the weight range and whether the extra weight has them on the verge of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other conditions. “It’s the same BMI chart for men and women, even though women typically have more body fat than men,” adds Dempers.īut in a time-crunched society, the benefits of BMI measurements are clear.

“But it doesn’t factor in body fat or muscle mass, so there are BMI limitations.”īMI is one-size-fits-all - it doesn’t account for naturally occurring body differences. Your number indicates if you’re in the healthy, underweight, overweight or obese range,” says Dempers. “BMI gives you an overall health assessment. Policy The 411 on BMI for menīMI uses math to measure your body fat: It’s your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

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