What is an accurate way to calculate my BMI?
If you want a more complete picture of health than BMI (which, as Keith noted, can mark bodybuilders as obese), look for someone that does hydrodensitometry weighing. This method will more accurately, if not perfectly, determine your body fat percentage. It will cost some money, but it's not too prohibitive if you really want to know.
My local gym sponsored a day where a company brought out its trailer and did it for about $25, I think. It was enlightening and worthwhile. I discovered that, yes, I am actually big-boned and not as overweight as I thought. Don't get me wrong - I was still fat; but having the knowledge of what I needed to do to get into normal range was really helpful in setting realistic goals.
4 Answers
If you want a more complete picture of health than BMI (which, as Keith noted, can mark bodybuilders as obese), look for someone that does hydrodensitometry weighing. This method will more accurately, if not perfectly, determine your body fat percentage. It will cost some money, but it's not too prohibitive if you really want to know.
My local gym sponsored a day where a company brought out its trailer and did it for about $25, I think. It was enlightening and worthwhile. I discovered that, yes, I am actually big-boned and not as overweight as I thought. Don't get me wrong - I was still fat; but having the knowledge of what I needed to do to get into normal range was really helpful in setting realistic goals.
What i have read to be the most accurate way to figure a personal BMI is with the use of a caliper. You take three measurements in different places on the body and then calculate your BMI.
You can find all of the information here...
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/drobson98.htm
BMI is a junk measurement. FWIW I'm 5'10" 175lbs. and 6% bodyfat (hydrostatic and DEXA testing). BMI considers me overweight.
As others have indicated...getting your bodyfat measured (calipers, hydrostatic, DEXA) is a much more accurate way to figure out where you stand. If there's a decent-sized university/college near you call their science/sports med department. They may offer the testing there.
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You can calculate your BMI here but BMI isn't the best indicator of health. It is just a kilograms/height in meters^2 It is just convenient. Since it is just a mater of weight, not what causes that weight, it does not differentiate between muscle, fat, or bone. I tend not to trust a measure of health that classifies many professional athletes as obese.