How to Calculate Percentage of Weight Loss

It is motivating to watch the Biggest Loser while on a diet. But when I see a 400 pound guy lose 30 pounds in one week it can make me feel that my 5 pound weight loss is nothing in comparison---especially since 30 pounds is my total weight loss goal. That's why on the Biggest Loser, they calculate the contestants' weight loss percentage and compare contestants by percentage lost, not pounds lost. By following the steps below, you too can calculate your weight loss percentage and see if you are the Biggest Loser.

Instructions

• 1

  First, write down your starting weight so that you don't forget over the next few weeks. Then when you weigh yourself again the next week, calculate your total weight change by subtracting your recent weight from your starting weight. (Hopefully, this will be a Loss and not a gain!)

• 2

  Now that you know your pounds lost for the week, divide it by your starting weight. This will give you a fraction such as .325.

• 3

  Multiply your answer in step 2 by 100 and round to the nearest tenth. Now you know the percentage of your weight loss and compare it with those on the Biggest Loser. A weight loss of 2 to 4% is very good. Happy dieting!