BIG Soldiers

The London Times is reporting that the majority of US troops are overweight.

Federal guidelines classify an individual as overweight if they have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25, regardless of age or gender. A BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in metres squared. Someone 5ft 11in and weighing 180lb (1.8m and 81.6kg), for example, has a BMI of just over 25.

Yeah, big deal. BMI is not something that can be taken at face value. BMI is not a suitable indicator for everyone because the calculation does not differentiate between fat mass and muscle mass. (WebMD) Exceptions to a high BMI score include competitive athletes and body builders, whose BMI is high due to increased muscle mass. Now, I know a lot of our military forces don't fall into this category, but I do think that this little bit of information can explain a good bit of the BMI's over 25.

Posted by Chris Short at November 18, 2002 04:20 PM