What's Your Ideal Body Weight?

To determine ideal body weight, you should not rely solely on a bathroom scale or height-weight tables. The scale and Body Mass Index (BMI) both fall short for many people because they don't distinguish between lean weight and fat weight. BMI provides an estimation of fat content in a person's body, and is probably accurate for most people. However, there are people, such as athletes, who weigh substantially more than others of similar heights because they have a relatively high amount of muscle. Their body-weight may be ideal given their lean muscle mass.

Body composition testing (also known as body fat analysis) allows you to determine your ratio of body fat to lean mass. Once you have a baseline, you can track your changes and see how your exercise program and diet are affecting your body composition. Energy in Motion provides body fat testing or you can visit your local fitness center. In just a few seconds you can accurately and safely determine your body composition.

If body fat testing is not available to you, strive for achieving a body weight that is compatible with a healthy lifestyle (ex. healthy diet and exercise). The body weight that results from adopting such a lifestyle will take into account a person's wellness level, genetic potential and a realistic weight goal and will support a healthy, functional lifestyle.