How to find our BMI, WHR, and THR?
Here's how to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Target Heart Rate (THR):
1. Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.
Formula: BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]2
or
BMI = weight (lb) / [height (in)]2 x 703
Steps:
- Measure your weight in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
- Measure your height in meters (m) or inches (in).
- Apply the appropriate formula above.
Example (Metric):
Weight = 70 kg, Height = 1.75 m
BMI = 70 / (1.75)2 = 70 / 3.0625 = 22.86
Example (Imperial):
Weight = 155 lbs, Height = 69 inches
BMI = (155 / (69)2) x 703 = (155 / 4761) x 703 = 22.88
BMI Categories: Source
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
- Obese: BMI 30 or greater
2. Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR)
WHR is the ratio of your waist circumference to your hip circumference. It is used as an indicator of health risk.
Formula: WHR = Waist Circumference / Hip Circumference
Steps:
- Measure your waist circumference at the smallest point of your waist, usually just above the navel.
- Measure your hip circumference at the widest part of your hips.
- Divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement.
Example:
Waist = 30 inches, Hips = 38 inches
WHR = 30 / 38 = 0.79
WHR Categories: Source
- Men:
- Excellent: < 0.85
- Good: 0.85 - 0.90
- Average: 0.90 - 0.95
- At Risk: > 0.95
- Women:
- Excellent: < 0.75
- Good: 0.75 - 0.80
- Average: 0.80 - 0.85
- At Risk: > 0.85
3. Target Heart Rate (THR)
THR is a range of heart rates that you should aim for during exercise to get the most benefit.
Formulas:
-
Maximum Heart Rate (MHR): MHR = 220 - Age
-
Target Heart Rate Range:
- Lower end: MHR x 0.5
- Upper end: MHR x 0.85
Steps:
- Calculate your Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) by subtracting your age from 220.
- Calculate the lower end of your THR range by multiplying your MHR by 0.5 (50%).
- Calculate the upper end of your THR range by multiplying your MHR by 0.85 (85%).
Example:
Age = 30
MHR = 220 - 30 = 190
Lower end of THR = 190 x 0.5 = 95
Upper end of THR = 190 x 0.85 = 161.5
THR Range: 95 - 162 beats per minute (approximately)
Note: These calculations are estimates. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.