What should my BMI and fat percentage be?
The downside to relying on BMI is that it doesn’t measure body fat. So, an athlete with a lot of muscle, for example, could have a higher BMI based on their weight and height.
Body fat vs. BMI.
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
|---|---|
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal or healthy weight |
| 25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and above | Obese |
Aug 16, 2019
Why is body fat percentage more accurate than BMI?
“Likewise, there are people who are of a normal weight according to BMI scales but who are overfat. BMI is a broad, general measure of risk. Body–fat assessment is much more specific to your actual fat content and thus provides a more accurate picture.”
Why is my body fat low but BMI high?
This is partially because muscle weighs more than fat, so if your body fat percentage is low, but you weigh more than what’s average for your height, your BMI could say that you are obese when you aren’t.
Should I focus on BMI or body fat percentage?
If you are extremely obese, then it is a good starting point as a decrease in your BMI score will have direct correlation to your improved health. But as you become leaner, your BF% is a better place to focus.
What is the healthiest body fat percentage?
Measuring body fat
For a man, 2 to 4 percent fat is considered healthy, and over 25 percent is classed as obesity. For a woman, 10 to 13 percent fat is healthy, but over 32 percent is considered a sign of obesity.