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How Body Mass Index Works - Set Your Weight Loss Goals
Many people want to lose a few of those annoying pounds, but
they just dont 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 laymans 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. Its 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. Chil
drens 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. Its 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 dont 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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