BMI

How do you measure up?
Overweight people are supposed to be jolly. In reality, they have little to laugh about.
It is estimated that over 5% of Australian children under five are obese. This is already higher than the USA. Obese children are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular problems, asthma, diabetes, and abnormal foot stricture, as well as shortness of breath.

There are two categories for excess weight:
 Overweight : classified as being 10% above your ideal weight (based on your BMI )
 Obesity: classified as being 20% or more above your ideal weight.

To check how your current weight rates you need to complete a BMI test:

Calculation of Body Mass Index (BMI) = Weight (Kg)/ Height ² (m²)

Based on your BMI you may be classified as :
Underweight – BMI range 12-17
Healthy weight – BMI range 18-24
Over weight - BMI range 25-29
Obese – BMI range 30-42

Purpose- the Body Mass Index (BMI) gives you a medical rated indication of how your current weight rates on a scale from underweight right through obese. Our aim is to target eating habits and exercise to achieve a healthy weight where your BMI is between 18-24.

Equipment – what you will need to calculate your BMI
• Height measure
• Bathroom scales
• Calculator

Method:
1. Remove your shoes
2. Measure your height in metres - ___________m
3. Measure your weight in kilograms - ___________kg
4. Square your weight - _______m²
5. Calculate your Body Mass Index: Weight divided by Height₂

Graph: Your BMI and where you stand on the scales (overweight, healthy weight, underweight).