How to work out BMI (example) is an instructional phrase that refers to calculating one’s body mass index (BMI). BMI is a metric used to assess weight and height for adults. For instance, suppose a 30-year-old male weighs 180 lbs. and is 5’10” tall. To work out his BMI using the standard formula (weight (in kilograms) / height (in meters)2), one would convert his weight to kilograms and height to meters. Following the calculation, the result would be his BMI.
BMI is a practical tool for healthcare professionals and individuals to assess their weight status and potential health risks. It helps classify individuals into weight categories like underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. This categorization aids healthcare providers in making informed recommendations on lifestyle modifications or medical interventions. Historically, the BMI concept was initially developed in the 19th century by Belgian statistician and astronomer Lambert Adolphe Jacques Quetelet.