BMI laughable..........?

Question

So, considering BMI is only relatively accurate if you are a white, medium build, non-athletic, male or female, what about everyone else who it does not account for?

Asia is supposed to be the healthiest nation on this planet and yes, this information may be totally incorrect because BMI scale doesn't work for Asians. It doesn't work for blacks either, nor athletes, nor older people, nor children, nor those with anything other than a medium build. It's so useless and pointless.

When are they going to give definite body fat percentage regulations instead, which according to a BMI of 18.5-24.9, roughly translates to 18%-32% for woman and 8%-22% for men if you are a white, average build, non-athletic, male or female lol.

Answer 1

As you've pointed out, the BMI isn't such a great measure because it fails to take into account the fact that everyone's body is composed differently. Someone with more muscle can get away with carrying that extra weight without sacrificing an ounce of health.

I think the primary reason why body fat percentage isn't used as the global benchmark for assessing weight is because it's a relatively difficult thing to measure - at least, measure accurately. There are quite a few online bodyfat calculators, but these are far from accurate.

In a way, the BMI appears to be a generally good indicator, in the sense that if you're 15 years old and have a BMI of 38 then I can pretty much guarantee you it's not because you're carrying around a tonne of muscle, but more likely than not a bunch of excess fat -- but personally I don't pay much attention to it for my own body.

Answer 2

Just a though on the BMI is a rough estimate and the body type that is basically used in non athletic with a slim build. That would be great if that was the only body type in the would. The truth is with all different body types out there you have to view yourself on a different level. How do you look and feel. If I had to lose weight I would have to lose 35lbs to hit My healthy weight. My waist is a 34" which could be better but if I had to lose that weight I would look like I was sick. So please just try to eat and be healthy do not use these list if you have a different body type or you will go crazy.

Answer 3

They've actually been saying now that waist measurement is a better judge of whether you're at risk from obesity than BMI for the reasons you have described. Often people (athletes in particular) are V shaped, but would have a high BMI and yet are very healthy.

Answer 4

I think the BMI in completely wrong. I not fat at all, just a little chunkier than I used to be after having a baby. I am a pant size 7, so I dont think that is too bad. I looked at the BMI and it tol dme I was obesse. I was like OMG I am sooooo not obesse. I am short, only like 5 foot, but I am not at all fat! I work out every day and eat very healthy....workin on losing those baby pounds, and I admit, I could be thinner, but I am not obesse! So in all I do not trust those damn things one bit.

Answer 5

i am the same i have lost alot of weight and i am still obese so it says ,i go to the gym 5 times a week and yes i could be slimmer but i have already lost 7 stone and i am only wanting to lose another 2 but even if i do i will still be classed as overweight,dont bother looking up your bmi its a load of crap.xxxxxxx

Answer 6

It doesn't always work for white women either. According to the bodyfat scale I have, my BMI is 32% (I only weigh 120 lbs)!!!

Answer 7

I agree that for sporty people, and many others who aren't, it is unaccurate. However, some of those photos of obese or underweight people on that site do truthfully look obese or underweight.