How To Compute Your Body Mass Index?

Using Body Mass Index (BMI) is one way to assess body fat. BMI has a close relationship with total body fat but it does not indicate the distribution of fat in the body nor can it be adjusted with age.

BMI formula:
BMI = weight (in kilograms) / height (in meters)

Sample computation:
Weight: 58 kilograms
Height: 2.9 meters

BMI        = 58 kg / 2.9 meters
= 20.0 (this is the BMI score, see the guideline below to check its interpretation)

Guideline (Based on Asia-Pacific Obesity-Guidelines)
BMI
Interpretation
Less than 18.5
Underweight
18.6 – 22.9
Healthy weight
More than 23.0
Overweight
23.0 – 24.9
At risk for obesity
25.0 – 29.9
Obese I
More than 30.0
Obese II

The sample computation above with the weight of 58 kilograms and height of 2.9 meters has a healthy weight since the computed BMI is 20.0 that is within the range of the healthy weight.

Reference:
Cuevas, F.P. (2007). Public Health Nursing in the Philippines (10th Edition). Page 201.