While the body mass index is a quick and common tool used for measuring body fat, it doesn’t always tell the whole story.
In fact, experts have revealed ways that are better-suited for measuring obesity other than good old BMI.
Let’s explore these approaches and see why they’re better for understanding your body fat and achieving your high BMI goals.
Waist Circumference
Measuring your waist circumference is a quick and easy way to gauge abdominal fat, which is often linked to health risks. And you don’t need anything else but your tape measure.
Here’s how to do it:
- Find the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above your belly button.
- Wrap the tape measure around, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Breathe normally and don’t suck in!
For women, a waist circumference over 35 inches (88 cm) might indicate a higher risk of obesity-related health issues.
But remember, we’re all built differently, so this is just a guideline.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) can give us insights into our fat distribution and is actually the new gold standard for obesity measurement that experts recommend.
Here’s how to measure it:
- Measure your waist as described above.
- Measure the widest part of your hips and buttocks.
- Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement.
A WHR above 0.85 for women might suggest a higher proportion of abdominal fat. This method is gaining traction because it can be more predictive of health risks than BMI alone.
Skinfold Measurements
This method might sound a bit old-school, but it’s still used by fitness professionals and some doctors.
Special calipers gently pinch and measure skin folds at specific body sites. While it requires some expertise to do accurately, it can provide a good estimate of body fat percentage.
Advanced Fat Measurement Tools
If you’re really curious about your body composition, there are some impressive technologies out there, such as the following:
DEXA Scans
Originally used for bone density, these low-radiation X-rays can map out your fat, muscle, and bone percentages with impressive accuracy.
Bioelectrical Impedance
Some scales and handheld devices use tiny electrical currents to estimate body fat. They’re convenient but can be affected by hydration levels.
3D Body Scanners
These futuristic-looking booths create detailed models of your body, tracking changes over time.
Body Fat Percentage
While not a specific measurement tool, understanding your body fat percentage can be incredibly valuable.
For women, a range of 21-33% is often considered healthy, but optimal levels can vary based on age and fitness goals.
The advanced tools mentioned above can help determine this number.
As you consider getting high BMI plastic surgery, these measurements can be helpful guides, but they’re just part of the picture.
Always consult with board-certified plastic surgeons who understand these nuances. They can help you determine if you’re a good candidate for procedures and guide you towards the safest, most effective options for your unique body.