Body Mass Index

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

BMI Calculator

Weight
Height

Limitations of the BMI

Body Mass Index is typically a good indicator of total body fat. However, in some cases the score is not as reliable.

  • It may overestimate body fat in athletes and individuals with a muscular build.
  • It may underestimate body fat in elderly people and other individuals who have lost muscle mass.
  • It is only valid for adults.

Making sense of waist circumference

Excess fat around the abdominal area is an indicator of being in the high risk category for the UKs biggest killer diseases - heart disease, high BP and stroke.

If your waist measurement is above 88 cm (35 inches) (women)

If your waist measurement is above 102 cm (40 inches) (men)

Then you are in the high risk category at this moment in time, and advised to consider a weight loss program. This is not designed to scare, just simply to tell you the facts, so that you can make an informed decision about your health.