Body Mass Index

The Body Mass Index is one of the key indicators of physical health for men and women

A good exercise and eating program can help you improve your BMI and waist circumference values the right way and minimize the amount of weight loss that comes from water and lean tissue. A certified personal trainer can individualize a program for you.

The body mass index (BMI) measures weight in relation to height. Researchers state that BMI values between 18.5 and 25 are optimal for good health. BMI values greater than 25 suggest excessive fat and increased risk factors for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer and heart disease. Very low BMI values; less than 18.5, indicate a deficiency in muscle mass.

BMI is reliable for most people between 19 and 70 years of age except women who are pregnant or breast feeding, competitive athletes, body builders, and chronically ill patients. Measuring waist circumference in addition to a BMI check is another easy method to quickly test health status. Health risk's increase if your waist size is greater than 40 inches for men or 35 inches for women, especially when combines with a high BMI value.

Determine your BMI using the BMI calculator and your waist circumference by measuring around your midsection at the navel. Compare your values to the guide below to determine your health risk relative to a healthy weight. A certified personal trainer can help you determine a healthy body weight and an exercise/healthy eating program to help you reach your health and fitness goals.

Calculate your BMI:

Enter your weight and height using Standard or Metric measures.
Click on "Compute BMI" and your BMI will appear in the Results field.

Health Risk by BMI & Waist Measurement:
BMI Categories:		Waist less than or equal to 40" in (men) or 35" (women)	Waist greater than 40" in (men) or 35" (women)
Underweight	Under 18.5	—	n/a
Normal weight	18.5-24.9	—	n/a
Overweight	25-29.9	Increased	High
Obesity	BMI of 30 - 39.9	High	Very High
Extremely Obese	BMI of 40 or greater	Very High	Very High