Setting goals - formula vs. bmi

[roundisashape 712]

So after my last body mass analysis at the gym and being fussed at by my primary care doc (who said my goal weight may be okay on the bmi chart, but is too low for me...though she didn't help me pick a new goal), I started looking up calculations for ideal body weight that account for muscle mass.

Here's one of the links I found that I used to do some calculations:

http://www.builtlean.com/2010/05/04/ideal-body-weight-formula-how-to-calculate-your-ideal-weight/

I thought the difference in results was interesting. On the BMI chart, I'll be "normal" at 140. Using the fat free mass I got at the gym, the calculator showed me at an "athletic" 20% body fat at 156!

According to these, a respectable (for a lifelong fat chick) goal of 30% puts me at 178 - that's less than 25 lbs away! I sure don't FEEL like I'm going to be "normal" in 25 pounds, regardless of how much effort I put into keeping / building on my current muscle mass.

What method did you use to pick a goal? Every time I think I've settled on something, I start having doubts and come up with another number.

[Elode 8,093]

I went by my highest BMI to be in normal range for now. I'm sure I will change it eventually but I'm going by BMI/how I look method!

[roundisashape 712]

Which, btw, is working for you - you look great, Elode!

[Elode 8,093]

@@roundisashape Thank you! I'm just a work in progress!