Another Study Questions The Accuracy of BMI (Body Mass Index) As a Predictor of Body Fat Percent

Researchers are cautioning against the use of BMI as a way to determine a person's percent of body fat - especially for athletes. BMI (body mass index) has been used for some time as a standard measurement of healthy weight versus obesity. But the questions around this measurement have been growing steadily. One study done at Michigan State University measured the BMI of more than 400 college athletes and nonathletes. They found that in most cases the student’s BMI did not accurately reflect his or her percentage of body fat.

Their conclusions: BMI should be used cautiously when classifying fatness in college athletes and nonathletes. Our results support the need for different BMI classifications of overweight in these populations.

Read more about Body Fat and Body Composition.