Am I Overweight?

Is That What You Are Wondering?

If you're still asking yourself, Am I overweight?, then perhaps an overweight calculator or overweight test will settle this question for you...

If you're asking this question, then chances are the answer is yes, you ARE overweight. But if you want to know for sure, there is a very simple test to see if you fit the definition of overweight or obesity.

Of course, you could just look at a healthy weight chart and see. But what you should understand is that the determination of overweight and obese is based on 2 factors:

• Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a measure of just how fat a person is. It compares weight to height. BMI is a predictor of total body fat, and body fat is really what causes all those health risks of being overweight. For more info and an overweight calculator, check out our BMI chart.

• Waist measurement. Another way to measure how much body fat you have is by measuring how "thick" your waist is. Too much body fat in the stomach area also increases your disease risk.

A Combination Overweight Test

And the best way to answer the question, "Am I Overweight?" is through a combination of BMI and waist measurement. The problem with using body mass index alone is that it can overestimate your body fat or inaccurately estimate your total body fat if you are especially muscular or if you have lost muscle due to inactivity or age.

So... If most of your fat is around your waist rather than at your hips, you're at a higher risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This risk goes up in women who have a waist size greater than 35 inches and men who have one greater than 40 inches. To correctly measure your waist, stand up and place a tape measure around your middle, just above your hipbones. Measure your waist just after you breathe out.

When I asked myself this same question back in December 2009, "Am I overweight?", I had to admit that I was. And admitting that you ARE overweight is your first step towards a new you!

Also in This Section

• Risks of Being Overweight

• Benefits of Losing Weight

• Statistics on Overweight Americans

• Facts About Obesity

• What You Need to Know About BMI

• Women's Weight Issues

• Menopause & Weight Gain

Enjoy what you see here? Here's some more interesting stuff:

• How do I lose weight?
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• Get inspired to get started with weight loss

Please NOTE: The information on this website is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or professional advice. Anyone considering starting a weight loss program should consult with their doctor first.