If you keep up with articles about weight loss you may have read that you can determine if you are overweight by calculating your body mass index (BMI). This assessment, which expresses the relationship of weight-to-height was developed by The National Center for Health Statistics. The desirable range for females is 21 to 23; for males, it is 22 to 24. BMI values above 27.8 for men and 27.3 for women have been associated with increased health problems, including high blood pressure and diabetes. The American Dietetic Association has classified people having BMIs greater than 30 as obese and those having BMIs greater than 40 as morbidly obese and in need of prompt medical attention.

To find your BMI, follow these steps:

• Divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches.
• Divide the result by your height in inches again.
• Multiply the result by 703.

EXAMPLE: For a person 6 feet tall (72 inches) and weighing 210 pounds

• 210 divided by 72 = 2.92
• 2.92 divided by 72 = .040
• 0.40 multiplied by 703 = 28.5

My fit readers are going to be surprised to discover their numbers are on the high side. That's because the calculation doesn't take lean muscle mass, usually high in fit people, into account. When you have a lot of muscle you carry more weight for your height without a lot of extra fat. So, make the calculation, but if you're fit, keep up the good work and pay attention, instead, to your body composition assessment-the relationship of fat to lean mass. You can use the circumferential measurements developed by Frank and Victor Katch if you have our book, THE SCALE COMPANION. It usually retails for $8.95 but you can have it for $5, postage paid, by calling 480-242-4812 or ordering it under the Smart Bargains icon at www.rondagates.com.