The most popular method for measuring Over Weight is the BMI. This article will address two issues.

1) How to use BMI to calculate over weight.

The formula for calculating BMI is as follows:

For SI unit: BMI = Weight (kg) / Height2 (m2)

For US unit: BMI = Weight (lb) / Height2 (in2) * 704.475

To determine if you are overweight, refer to the figure below.

BMI

18.5 Underweight
18.5 - 24.9 Normal
25.0 - 29.9 Overweight
30.0 - 39.9 Obese
39.9 Morbidly Obese

According to the BMI, if you are 1.83m tall with a weight of 85kg, you have a BMI of 25.3, which means you are overweight.

2) How NOT to use BMI to calculate over weight.

This is where the problems come in when there is a borderline case. So if you have a BMI of 25.3, that means you are overweight? According to the BMI, yes! But it is important to take note that the BMI has its own limitation. Two people can have the same BMI and yet the first person is overweight and second person is not.

One possible reason is that the first person has more muscle than the second person. Muscle is heavier than fats. Another reason may be the first person has a heavier bone density.

A common problem that occurs is that sometimes, people are too sensitive to the numbers when it comes to weight loss that they failed to see the big picture. As a result, health is affected.

Do not worry too much if your BMI is in the borderline case. Chances are, if you lead a healthy lifestyle, with good nutrition and sufficient exercise, you are fine. If in doubt, always consult a qualified professional for advice. However, if your main concern is getting into a good shape, you may consider consulting a professional trainer.