Body Mass Index (BMI)

Overweight people

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a commonly used measurement that compares a person’s weight and height to estimate the amount of body fat they have. It is often used to assess whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. The formula for BMI in Imperial units is:

$$ \mathit{BMI} = 703 \times { weight_{lbs} \over {height_{in}}^2 } $$

You can calculate your BMI below:




The results of a Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation typically fall into four main categories:

  1. Underweight: A BMI of less than 18.5 is considered underweight, which can indicate malnutrition or a lack of proper nutrition.

  2. Normal weight: A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal weight, which is associated with a lower risk of health problems.

  3. Overweight: A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, which can increase the risk of health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

  4. Obesity: A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obesity, which is associated with a significantly increased risk of health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

It’s important to note that while BMI can provide a general indication of a person’s body fat level, it has limitations and should not be used as the sole indicator of a person’s health. Other factors such as muscle mass, age, and sex should also be considered. Additionally, it is recommended to discuss the results of a BMI calculation with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for improving one’s health.