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Does BMI Calculate Muscle?

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a formula that uses weight and height to estimate body fat. It does not calculate muscle mass. It is a tool to determine if your weight is within a healthy range for someone of your height.

  1. How to Calculate

    • There are online tools that can give an approximate BMI so you can get a reasonable idea of your target weight. One is at the Mayo Clinic website (see Resources).

    Body Fat Analyzers

    • Some health clubs have commercial body fat analyzer machines, but they are not completely accurate, because the results vary depending on several factors, such as how hydrated you are when the measurement is taken.

    Bio-Electric Impedance Analysis (BIA)

    • BIA is a more accurate measurement of body fat. It involves attaching electrodes to the hands, which measures the difference in electrical conductivity of muscle and fat and, using these values, measures the percentage of body fat in the upper body.

    Why Measure Body Fat?

    • Measuring body fat can give you an indication of whether your weight is in a healthy or unhealthy range for your height. You can use this information to alter your diet and/or exercise levels.

    Does BMI measure muscle?

    • BMI cannot distinguish between muscle and fat, so it cannot be used to predict weight-related health problems. Body builders may have a high BMI but may be perfectly healthy. Where your body fat is is also an important factor in predicting potential health problems. If your fat is mainly around your waist, you are more likely to develop health problems than if it is stored on your hips and thighs. So even if you have a healthy BMI, you could still be at risk for body fat-related health problems.

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