Using the BMI measurement system

The Body Mass Index or BMI is measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women.

BMI does not differentiate between body fat and muscle mass.  So, body builders and people who have a lot of muscle bulk will have a high BMI but will not be classified as overweight or obese.

Classifications                     BMI
Underweight                       <19
Ideal BMI                            19-25
Overweight                         25-30
Obese                                   >30
Severely Obese                   >35
Morbidly Obese                 >40
Super Obese                       >50

 

Fat predominantly distributed around the waist is also a risk factor for health complications such as cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes. Fat predominantly deposited around the hips and buttocks doesn’t have this same risk.

To calculate your BMI, please use the calculator that appears on the right-hand side of this page.