Learn about Body Mass Index and use the Body Mass Index Calculator to find your ideal weight

Body Mass Index and Other Measures of "Ideal Weight"

Body mass index is a measure of whether your weight is correct for your height.

Body mass index is not a perfect, standalone measurement of whether you are overweight. A significant number of people classed by body mass index as overweight are in fact obese.

Ideally, your body mass index is used in combination with your waist measurement.

Your Waistline - If your body mass index is higher than 25, and your waist is more than 90 cm (35 inches) (women) or 102 cm (40 inches) (men) then you are at increased risk of diseases associated with obesity such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and osteoarthritis. If your waist is less than 90 cm (35 inches) (women) or 102 cm (40 inches) (men) then your risks of some of the diseases associated with being overweight are considerably reduced.

Many sports people are heavily muscled. They find their body mass index classes them as "overweight" although they are not at all fat.

If your body mass index is over 25 and you have a large waistline, your prospects for good health will improve greatly if you cut your food intake and gradually increase the amount of physical activity you take part in. These actions will result in steady weight loss and better health.