There is a generally recognized link between body weight and health. Many studies have, in fact, demonstrated that being overweight can lead to certain health problems. In addition, being under the weight considered normal also constitutes a risk. To evaluate a person’s healthy weight, the body mass index (BMI) is used.
BMI is a simple correlation between weight and height. Once the BMI is established, it can help to determine if a person is more or less at risk of developing certain diseases.
There are four BMI categories:
| Classification | BMI category |
Risk of developing health problems |
Underweight |
<18.5 |
Increased |
Normal weight |
From 18.5 to 24.9 |
Slight |
Overweight |
From 25.0 to 29.9 |
Increased |
Obese |
> 30.0 |
Elevated |
It’s important to note that BMI is not an absolute measurement, but simply a very useful guideline. It does not apply to:
- Infants
- Children
- Adolescents
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Endurance athletes
- People with high muscle mass
- People over 65 years of age
To calculate your BMI, enter your weight and height in the boxes below and click on “Calculate.”
1. Choose your measure units.
2. Complete.
Your height: &
Your weight:











