The most simple way to measure whether you're in a 'healthy' weight category is by comparing weight to height. This can be done by using a Body Mass Index calculator. Doctors use it as a straightforward way to measure if someone is carrying extra/too little weight for their height.
However, BMI is not always accurate in terms of measuring fat. As we all know, muscle is more dense than fat, and so people with large muscle percentages may have a high BMI despite their low fat percentage.
It also doesn't indicate where fat is stored; some fat can be okay, but too much fat in the wrong places can be dangerous. For example, some professionals suggest that too much fat (extreme cases) around the abdomen is more dangerous than fat on the thighs, as the fat is close to your organs and can lead to a risk of diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks. BBC Health suggests regardless of your height or BMI, you should try to lose weight if your waist is:
- Men - 94cm (37ins) or more.
- Women - 80cm (31.5ins) or more.
Nevertheless, BMI is a good starting point for those wanting to take control of their weight. You can use it to figure out where you are starting from and make safe, active, and healthy changes in your lifestyle to improve your muscle to fat ratio.
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