I do not know exactly where this idea came from, however, it seems to be aligned with your BMI (Body Mass Index). The BMI is a commonly used measurement that relates weight and height to determine if a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
We now know that BMI is not a determining factor in measuring your “ideal weight”. It was developed by the Belgian mathematician and statistician Adolphe Quetelet in the early 19th century.
Quetelet's formula for calculating BMI is based on a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters (BMI = weight / height²). The resulting number is then used to categorize individuals into different BMI ranges, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese.
I say it isn’t the determining factor because BMI has its limitations and does not directly measure body fat percentage or distribution, nor does it take into account the different body types that exist throughout the world. (For example: Central Americans tend to be shorter and chunkier than Europeans)
Health and Medical guidelines also seem to have some influence in this matter. Medical and health organizations establish guidelines based on scientific research to define healthy weight ranges. These guidelines take into account factors such as body composition, disease risk, and overall well-being.
Let’s not forget that the Media, including advertising, entertainment, and fashion industries, often promote certain body types as desirable or ideal. This can shape societal perceptions of an ideal weight.
So, what do I think the “ideal weight” is?
Well, I don’t think there is such a thing as an “ideal weight” meaning, I don’t think there’s a perfect number. However, I do think there are some indicators that will help you reach YOUR ideal weight (and not even then, just more like your ideal-lifestyle-supporting-body).
Here are some of them:
🚲 If your child loves riding a bike and asks you to join them but you can't due to weight limitations... you're not living your life to the fullest.
🏖️ If your family loves going to the beach and swimming, but you don't wear a swimsuit out of fear of what others might say... you're not living your life to the fullest.
🎂 If you're invited to a birthday celebration for one of your best friends, but you don't eat cake (even though you really want to) because you're "on a diet"... you're not living your life to the fullest.
⛪️ If the church needs volunteers for childcare, but you get tired quickly because you lack sufficient energy... you're not living your life to the fullest.
It's not about reaching the perfect number on the scale.
It's about having your health and the body entrusted to you by God in perfect condition, so you can fulfill His purpose in your life, whether it's caring for your children, excelling in your work, or serving others.
Are you living your life to the fullest? If you need help with this, I'm here for you 🙋🏼♀️