Biometrics
In this section, you will be asked for your body measurements, be prepared if you don't know them, weigh yourself and find out your height (size), you will also be asked for your waist and hip measurements. Select one of the following options to find out more:
What is Body Mass Index.
This is a value derived from the mass (weight) and height of a person. It results from dividing the Mass (Weight)/height squared and is universally expressed in Kg/m2. It is a convenient way of stratifying whether a person is underweight, normal weight or overweight or obese. BMI below 20 or above 25 are associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, the risk increases as we move away from the value of 20-25 (considered normal).
Waist
Regardless of your weight, your waist measurement is important because it's a reflection of how fat accumulates in your body. The tendency to accumulate fat in the central parts of your body can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers, and stroke. Regardless of your weight, you should try to lose weight if your waistline:
- en => 94 cm (37 in) for men
- en => 80 cm (31.5 in) for women
- Especially, if your waist is => 102 cm (40 in) for men
- Especially, if your waist is => 88cm (34.5 in) for women
Hip
Allows you to calculate your Waist/Hip Ratio. It has been used as a health index. Research has shown that people with "apple-shaped" bodies, i.e. those who tend to accumulate fat around the waist, are at greater risk than those with "pear-shaped" bodies, with more fat accumulated around the hips, regardless of their weight. The World Health Organization defines abdominal obesity as a Waist-to-hip ratio > 90 for Men and Waist-to-hip ratio > 90 for Women.Waist/hip ratio > 85 for women.
For instructions on how to measure your hips click here.
