You've probably heard the term "BMI" mentioned by doctors, in health articles, or at the gym. But what exactly is it, and should you pay attention to it? This simple guide breaks it all down.
What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
BMI is a simple calculation that uses your height and weight to estimate your body fat. It's a widely used screening tool to gauge whether a person's weight is healthy for their height. While it's not a perfect diagnostic tool, it gives a good general idea of potential weight-related health risks.
How Do You Find Your BMI?
The formula for BMI is your weight in kilograms divided by the square of your height in meters. But you don't need to do the math yourself. The easiest way is to use a calculator.
→ Find out your score in seconds with our free BMI Calculator.
Understanding the BMI Categories
Once you have your BMI score, you can see where it falls within these standard categories:
- Below 18.5: Underweight
- 18.5 – 24.9: Normal or Healthy Weight
- 25.0 – 29.9: Overweight
- 30.0 and Above: Obesity
It's important to remember that BMI is just one piece of the puzzle. It doesn't account for factors like muscle mass, bone density, or body composition. However, for most people, it's a reliable and useful starting point for a conversation with a healthcare provider about their overall health.