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BODY MASS INDEX
What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
Body mass index (BMI) is a widely used international standard that measures weight to height
ratio to determine obesity. BMI is expressed by the following terms:
Body weight (kg)
[Body height (m)]
2
The BMI is only a general indicator of your health level. As such, accuracies may vary
depending on your body type and composition. Consult your physician to find out more about
your current health.
To convert pounds or stone pounds to kilograms, and inches to meters, refer to the
conversion reference on page 13.
How to Interpret BMI
Use the resulting BMI value with the chart below to determine your current level of health:
Asians have a separate BMI range due to their different body composition.
BMI should not be used as a guideline for health risks for the following groups:
NOTE
Health Indication
Underweight
Recommended
Overweight
Obese
Description
BMI Range
Less than 20.0*
* Asian BMI:
Less than 18.5
20.0 – 25.0*
* Asian BMI:
18.5 – 23.0
25.1 – 29.9*
* Asian BMI:
23.0 – 29.9
30.0 or greater*
* Asian BMI:
30.0 or greater
Your body weight is currently lower than
average. Work toward healthy, regular food
intake and exercise routine to build up your
health to recommended levels.
Your health is at the recommended level.
Maintain a balanced diet and exercise to
keep your current level of health.
Your body weight may be above normal.
Increase your exercise and work out a diet
plan to lower your risk for serious illness.
At this level, you may be at risk for heart
disease, high blood pressure, and other
illnesses. Consult with your doctor to develop
a proper health and fitness plan.
Group
Children and
teenagers
Athletes and
bodybuilders
Pregnant or
nursing women
People over the
age of 65
Reason
BMI ranges are only based on adult heights.
BMI does not differentiate between fat and muscle, thus making it
inaccurate for persons with high muscle volumes.
This group generates naturally high fat reserves as part of the
pregnancy.
Fat reserves naturally tend to be higher with older persons.
NOTE
BMI =
NOTE