This is the ratio of the person’s body weight to their height. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kg by square of height in meters. BMI is a good indication of body composition, especially when the individual has a high Fat percentage. When an individual is classified in the overweight or obese categories, this increase the risk of developing chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, etc.
BMI is not a true reflection of someone’s body composition, if the body fat percentage is low. For example in body builder who have BF % below 10, then the sum of skinfolds should be taken to calculate this.
From the results of the calculations classified into different categories:
Classifications | BMI |
---|---|
Underweight | Less than 18.5 |
Normal | 18.5 – 24.9 |
Overweight | 25 – 29.9 |
Obese | 30 – 34.5 |
Severely Obese | 35 – 39.9 |
Morbidly Obese | 40+ |
Skinfolds provide a good indication of the level of fatness located over the body in the subcutaneous storage areas. A skinfold caliper is used to measure the various skin sites, usually these measurements are taken and calculated by a trained professional. These measurements are used to calculate a predicted body fat percentage. This method is popular as it is quick, cost effective and non-painful procedure. When the measurements are taken, the individual is in minimal clothing to expose the various site.
The various sites locations can be found on the ASSIC testing app. These skinfold sites include:
Calculation and result interpretation: