The Best Health Indicator
- Bin the BMI
- Give yourself a better measurement
A chip on my fitness shoulder for years has been the Body Mass Index Scale. Not only does it treat muscle the same as fat but it doesn’t give an accurate account of obesity. The fact that athletes (with low bodyfat percentages) can be considered obese or worse is, in my opinion, an affront to the medical profession.
For those who don’t know, BMI measures your height to your weight. On paper this is a good idea but not if you have muscle mass. This is because muscle weighs more than fat but it burns calories over a longer period. Think of muscle as adding petrol to your fat burning furnace; the body works harder to retain muscle.
So instead of the BMI, I heard a doctor on the radio discussing the following measurement:
Your waist size should be less than half your height.
Simple. Effective and accounts for muscle. This is primarily so important because weight stored around the waist is linked with cardiovascular diseases such as strokes and heart disease. It is important to ensure that this risk is reduced to a manageable level but I admit it can be difficult.
In addition to that, you can use a tape measure to gauge your progress. This is a steadfast way of tracking your achievements.
Finally, should you have access to a biometrical body fat measurement machine, then this can also be a good method of getting rather precise data. Bodyfat percentage is guaranteed to provide your actual results in a consistent way. As a disclaimer though, obsession is also unhealthy so use this in moderation
The RYPT 60-page beginner’s home workout plan is available with a day by day plan, contact me directly.
RYPT is built around sustainability, moderation and enjoyment. Through the RYPT app, you will be guided every step of the way and have full support too.
If you have any questions about health, fitness, wellbeing, exercise or nutrition please contact me directly for help!
Ross
Owner RYPT.
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rossyeomanpt@gmail.com
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