How to Calculate BMI Percentage

Doctors, dietitians, sports physiologists and weight-loss coaches advise patients/clients looking to drop some unwanted pounds to calculate their Body Mass Index, or BMI. Much has been made of the index, as it lets individuals know exactly where their current weight falls against statistical norms. Critics argue that BMI doesn't take into account a person's body type. Regardless, it serves as basic information and could help you start to lose excess body fat.

Instructions

1

Log on to Nhlbsupport.com/BMI and enter your personal information. It will ask for height and weight, which can be entered in standard or metric measurements. Click the "calculate" prompt and your number will appear in the box.

2

Compare your percentage number to those that are considered national averages and the normal ranges for healthy adults. A BMI of 18 or under is considered underweight, while 18 to 24 falls in the normal range. Overweight is considered 25 to 30, and any number over 30 is clinically obese.

3

Click on "BMI Tables" and you can find your ideal body weight. You can further assess your healthy weight range by using a tape measure on circumference of your waistline. Hold the end of the tape measure over your navel, wrap the measure around your waist and note the number. Any measurement over 40 for men or 35 for women indicates the presence of too much abdominal fat, which may contribute to negative risk factors for heart disease.