BMI Explained
In adults the easiest measure of fatness is to measure weight (W/kg) and height (H, m) and calculate W/H2. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. According to the WHO definition the normal (or recommended) BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9, a BMI between 25 and 29.9 defined as overweight and a BMI of 30 or more is considered to be obese. It’s important that the BMI measurements do not stand-alone and it should be kept in mind that BMI may represent different levels of fatness and body fat distribution depending on age, sex and ethnicity or race. e.g. a tall muscular person can have a higher BMI without actually being overweight. An example: Weight = 80 kg. Height = 1.69 meter. BMI = (80 kg/ (1.69 m x 1.69 m) = BMI is 28Are you an Apple Shape?
If you have put too much weight on, it is important how the weight is placed on you body. If the extra weight is around your stomach (apple shape) there will be a bigger risk than if the extra weight is around the hips. As suggested by the National Institute of Health and WHO you have:- A low risk if your waist circumference is 79cm for women and 93cm for men
- An increased risk if it’s between 80-87cm for women and 94-101cm for men
- And a high risk if the waist circumference is 88+cm for women and 102+com for men