Waist circumference is another method of assessing your body weight.

 

Grab a tape measure and follow these simple steps:

 

1. Place a tape measure around your waist above the tip of your hipbone.

2. Measure your waist after exhaling.

3. Determine your health risk. For women, a waist measurement of 31.5 inches or more indicates high risk. For men, a waist measurement of 37 inches or more indicateshigh risk.

 

**BMI may not be an accurate measure for everyone — including people who have more muscle mass (like athletes), seniors with less muscle mass or people under 5 feet tall. If you are at high risk, learn how you can lose weight. If you are not at risk, learn how to prevent weight gain.