high body fat but low BMI?

Hi,

I just calculated my body fat percentage for the first time using this little tool:

http://www.bmi-calculator.net/body-fat-calcul ator/metric-body-fat-calculator.php

It says that I have a 33,4% body fat percentage which, according to the chart, would put me in the "obese" category. Which is very weird, since I'm 167cm and 54 kg. (I'm here to log food to maintain weight by the way)

So, I'm skinny but at the same time have an "obese" body fat percentage. Should I be worried? Or is it just a sign that my body would like to have some more muscle? (of which I don't have much, I admit)

Elena

You can't calculate body-fat remotely.  It has to be done either with special scales or calipers to be judged accurately.  The medical definition of 'obesity' means you have a BMI of 30+... which you don't.

If you've got to your very low BMI mostly through calorie-restriction what could be happening is that you have lost muscle mass along the way.  If you're continuing to undereat in order to maintain your new weight then that will also lead to 'loose skin' and poor muscle tone.... also general health issues in the long-term

Make sure you're now getting adequate nourishment (1900-2100 per day typically) and, if you think your body needs toning, start to include some strengthening exercises to firm up your muscles.  You may gain a few lbs but you've got plenty of scope to play with.

Thank you for your reply :) So  body fat can't be calculated remotely, that makes sense!

I've had a 19-20 BMI for years, and I eat well, walk and bicycle a lot and feel good, but I've never done any strength training. Looks like it's time to get muscle! I'll look up some info on that. =]

What's your average daily calorie-intake?.... If you want to build muscle you'll need to take in a surplus of energy. 

I eat about 1,800 on average daily, as CC tells me to.

For building muscle, I guess the extra calories should ideally come from protein, right?

When I was really underweight I had more fat than I do now at a healthier weight because my muscle had been used by my body for energy [strange isn't it?].
I think you should definitely do some weight training, because you don't need to lose any weight obviously [gaining won't hurt, but you're not underweight or anything].

Oh and it doesn't really matter where you're getting your calories from as long as you are eating a well balanced and varied diet. Make sure you eat more when you exercise more.

that website's calculator is for ANYONE over 5'5"
...i'm 5'9" 30" waist 167lbs it told me i have 32% bodyfat, but i calculated what it would be if i was 147 with a 20" waist (which would be compeletely ridiculous at 147 for my body type) and it said i'd still have 27% bodyfat.

try this site...
http://www.healthstatus.com/calculate/bfb
you can put your own height in.
i got 29% bodyfat, which i feel is much more accurate.