How to Adjust Data for Body Mass

The body mass index, or BMI, identifies possible weight problems in adults, teenagers and children. Developed by the Belgium statistician Adolphe Quetelet, the BMI is a body-measurement tool. This tool determines if you are overweight, underweight or at a regular, healthy weight by comparing your height to your weight. The Cleveland Clinic notes that a high BMI is correlated with an elevated risk for hypertension, heart disease and diabetes. You can determine your BMI and easily adjust the data as you lose, maintain or gain weight through a simple calculation.



Instructions
Things You'll Need:

* Calculator
* Measuring stick
* Measuring tape
* Scale

1. Measure your height and weight before attempting to ascertain your BMI. Retrieve a measuring tape or stick to determine your height in inches and hop on an accurate weight scale to attain your weight in pounds.

2. Calculate your body mass using the body-mass index formula. Obtain a calculator, paper and a pen or a pencil and then use the following formula: weight (lbs.) / [height (inches)]2 x 703.
Multiply your height in inches by your height in inches. Then divide your weight in pounds by the answer you entered for your height in inches squared. Multiply the final number by 703 for your body mass index.

3. Compare your BMI with a BMI chart. You are underweight if your BMI is 18 or less. A healthy weight is between 18.6 and 24.9, overweight is between 25 and 29.9 and obesity is a BMI of 30 or greater.

4. Reassess your body mass to track any changes in your body mass index. You can easily adjust data for your body mass by weighing yourself every month and placing this number back into the formula to determine your new BMI.