close
BMI: Body Mass Index – What is it?
May 2017 | Reading time: 2 minutes
Table of Contents
Why BMI is important and how to calculate it.
BMI stands for body mass index. It’s a simple system for calculating the fat, muscle, and bone of a person to put them into a weight category.
Though not perfect, BMI can nonetheless be a useful way to self-assess and place yourself in a category.
The categories vary around the world, but one of the simplest iterations can be seen in this chart from diabetes.co.uk.
The simple scale uses the categories of underweight, normal, overweight, obese, and morbidly obese.
People who do not fall within the ‘normal’ category are more likely to develop health problems such as coronary artery disease, diabetes and sleep apnea. If you feel you are in one the at-risk categories, you should seek advice from your GP.
How to calculate you BMI
You can calculate you BMI using the chart above, but the NHS also provide a very useful online calculator that takes into account more factor than just your height and weight
Is BMI important?
It’s important to remember that BMI is a relatively crude way to assess if someone is overweight. Someone who has a great deal of muscle mass may be placed in one of the at-risk categories erroneously.
There are more accurate methods of measuring fat. At our clinics, we use Tanita scales, which utilise electrical pulses to approximate the percentage of fat in a person’s weight.
More accurate technology exists in the form of full body scanners which work in a similar way to our scales but take readings in fat more places.
To this day, one of the most accurate methods for measuring fat are callipers.
So, while BMI itself may not be that important, an accurate assessment of fat/weight is very useful when choosing a weight reduction treatment at VIVO Body Studio. Getting this information will help choose the most effective treatment and give us a better idea of the number of treatments that will be required.
Related Articles
Facelift Manchester
A guide to facelift treatments at VIVO Body Studio Manchester. We offer a range of non-invasive facelift and rejuvenation treatments...
Unlock the Secrets to Vibrant Health: The Basics You Need to Know
Nourish Your BodyA balanced diet is the cornerstone of good health. Aim for a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including plenty...
Mastering the Fundamentals: Your Guide to Health Basics
Understanding the Health Basics Understanding the health basics is key to living a vibrant, balanced life. From nutrition to rest,...
Weird Diets You Definitely Shouldn’t Try
People have done some odd things to shed a few pounds, but these weird diets are just plain ridiculous. (more…)
Fast-track Weight Loss Plan
The constant battle of losing weight has left many people demotivated and disappointed. Here's a simple fast-track weight loss plan...
Fat Loss Birmingham
A practical guide to weight loss in Birmingham Living in Britain’s second city, it can sometimes be difficult to find...
Dermal Fillers for Men
Dermal fillers are becoming increasingly popular among men who wish to reduce signs of ageing such as frown lines and...
What is Vaginal Laxity and how to deal with it?
Vaginal laxity is one of the most common yet overlooked health concerns among women. Childbirth, ageing, and certain medical conditions...
What’s the Paleo Diet All About?
The Paleo (or Paleolithic) diet has emerged as one of the most popular weight loss plans available today. From nutritionists...
What is Cellulite?
Are you vulnerable? What are its causes? Cellulite doesn’t discriminate! It can affect men and women of all sizes and...
Facelift Newcastle
The facelift treatment guide for VIVO Body Studio Newcastle. Choosing a facelift or rejuvenation treatment can be confusing. With so...
Ultrasound Cavitation London
Ultrasound Cavitation is available at VIVO Body Studio London VIVO Body Studio London offers advanced ultrasound cavitation, a fat reduction...Fill out the form below or click here to arrange a callback at a specific time.
Quick Contact
"*" indicates required fields
Happy Customers
1,899 Reviews and Counting
Mobina carried out this treatment and she is v knowledgable, professional and attentive throughout. I’ve got my next appointment booked & can’t wait to see the results after that session.
I would highly recommend this treatment and Mobina.