Stepping onto a scale can be dreadful; we’d all like to fall into the “normal range” on the BMI (body mass index) chart. However, many of us who exercise consistently may find our BMI to be higher than the target range. But are we overweight? Are we still unfit even we exercise at least 30 minutes a day? Not necessarily.

Generally speaking, overweight individuals are unfit and may be at risk of diseases. But “overweight” and “unfit” deserve a clearer distinction. Although “overweight” and “fit” contradict each other, an individual can be overweight but considered fit by being able to exercise in moderate intensity. BMI only measures the weight relative to a person’s height; an active person may fall into the category of “overweight” by having more muscle mass (muscles weight more than fat). Also, according to NY Times’ report, fitness, measured by treadmill test, is a better indicator of a person’s general health. People with bigger frame but could perform better on the treadmill tend to live longer than skinnier and less fit individuals.

I encourage you to asses your health by doing practical fitness testing, such as 1-mile run/walk, push-ups, or crunches. Stepping onto a scale and categorizing yourself on the BMI chart could discourage you or mask the possibility of health problems. Guinea Pig wants you to be fit!