The body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It is an affordable and easy screening method for weight categories that may lead to health problems. BMI is widely used for screening at the population level, but it may not always be useful for an individual. Gaining too much weight is a major risk factor for several diseases including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and more.
BMI is calculated using a simple formula that takes into account a person’s weight in pounds and height in inches. The BMI number is then used to categorize a person into one of four weight categories: underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Individuals can calculate their BMI using a BMI calculator or using the BMI formula.
BMI is expressed in units of kg/m^2, where kg is the mass in kilograms and m^2 is the height in meters squared. However, in the US and UK, BMI is often calculated using pounds and inches. The formula for BMI in lbs and inches is as follows: BMI = 703 * weight (lbs) / [height (in)]^2
How to Calculate BMI in Lbs
BMI in lbs is calculated using a simple formula that employs a person’s weight in pounds (lbs) and height in inches (in). The steps to calculate BMI in lbs are as follows:
- First, convert your weight in pounds (lbs). For example, if you weigh 185 lbs, then your weight in kg is 83.9 kg.
- Next, convert your height in inches (in). For example, if you are 6 feet 2 inches tall, then your height in cm is 188 cm.
- Then, calculate your BMI using the formula: BMI = 703 * weight (lbs) / [height (in)]^2
- Using the example values, BMI = 703 * 185 / 72^2
- Finally, simplify the expression to find your BMI. In this example, BMI = 26.8 kg/m^2.
Methods for Calculating BMI in Lbs
Calculating BMI using the BMI formula can be done either manually or using online calculators and BMI charts. The manual method involves using a calculator to perform the calculations. Alternatively, online BMI calculators offer a user-friendly and accurate way to determine your BMI. These calculators are readily available on various websites and can be accessed using a computer or smartphone with internet connectivity. BMI charts provide a visual representation of BMI values based on height and weight ranges, making it convenient to determine your BMI category.
BMI Categories and Weight Status
BMI is used to categorize individuals into four weight status categories, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
- Obese: BMI greater than or equal to 30
BMI Table in Lbs and Inches
To make the BMI calculation process easier, a BMI table in lbs and inches can be created. This table provides a quick and convenient way to determine your BMI based on your weight and height. Here’s an example of a BMI table in lbs and inches:
Height (inches) | Weight (lbs) | BMI |
---|---|---|
5 feet 0 inches | 100 | 20.0 |
5 feet 5 inches | 120 | 22.2 |
5 feet 10 inches | 140 | 24.2 |
6 feet 0 inches | 160 | 26.1 |
6 feet 5 inches | 180 | 27.9 |
Examples of BMI Calculations in Lbs
Here are some examples of BMI calculations in lbs using the BMI formula:
- For a person weighing 185 lbs and a height of 6 feet 2 inches, the BMI calculation is: BMI = 703 * 185 / 72^2 = 26.8. This person falls into the overweight category.
- For a person weighing 130 lbs and a height of 5 feet 5 inches, the BMI calculation is: BMI = 703 * 130 / 65^2 = 21.5. This person falls into the normal weight category.
- For a person weighing 220 lbs and a height of 5 feet 10 inches, the BMI calculation is: BMI = 703 * 220 / 70^2 = 30.5. This person falls into the obese category.
Conclusion
BMI is a widely used measure of weight status and body fat. It is calculated using a simple formula that takes into account a person’s weight in pounds and height in inches. BMI can be used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems, but it is also important to consider individual factors such as body composition and muscle mass. Maintaining a healthy BMI can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall health.