Body Mass Index (BMI)

The Body Mass Index, or BMI, is used to measure and classify overweight and obesity. This number is an indicator that can estimate the relative risk of disease compared to normal weight. Body weight alone can be used to measure weight loss.

Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 29.9 while obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or above. Thus, the recommended upper limit of body fat as a percentage of body mass is 25.0%.

Determine Your BMI

To determine BMI, your weight is divided by your height, squared. To calculate your BMI using the BMI calculator, first select your height in feet/inches and then enter your weight in pounds. Click on the "equals" button to see your Body Mass Index.

Limitations

The BMI calculator does have limitations. First, it may overestimate body fat in athletes and those people with a muscular build. Second, it may underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle mass. Why the difference? BMI is calculated using weight and height only. It does not measure body composition or body fat. The calculator should therefore only be used as a general guideline to monitor trends, not as a diagnosis of your health status. Evaluation by your health care provider should be performed to determine your true weight status and associated health risks. Reminder: if you are over the Army weight standard, the only authorized body composition assessment is the "tape test" IAW AR 600-9.

Click here to use the BMI Calculator!