Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using your height and weight to estimate body fat. It is widely used by healthcare professionals as a screening tool.
BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
- Obese: BMI 30 or greater
How to Calculate BMI
BMI = weight (kg) / height squared (m2). In imperial: BMI = (weight in lbs x 703) / height in inches squared.
Limitations
- Does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass
- Athletes may have a high BMI due to muscle
- May not be accurate for elderly or very short/tall individuals
Use BMI as a starting point, not a final diagnosis. Combine with other measurements like waist circumference and body fat percentage.