the body mass index

The Body Mass Index (BMI) was formulated by Lambert Adolphe Jacques Quételet, a Belgian scientist, astronomer, mathematician, and one of the founders of modern statistics. In some circles, the BMI is also known as the Quételet index.

By calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI) you will be able to estimate your ideal weight. The index will tell you whether or not you need to lose weight, and by how much. This method is one of the popular ways for determining an appropriate fitness regimen and is often used by many doctors and health professionals. While the BMI is an important tool for weight loss, it is by no means comprehensive or definitive.
The BMI does not take into account muscle mass or fat distribution, making it most useful to those aged 18 to 65 years old. The method is normally not used on pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with serious medical conditions, athletes, and children. Additionally, for people aged 65 years old and above, the recommended healthy weight range is slightly higher than the values listed below.

The BMI is calculated by multiplying the weight in pounds with the fixed number of 703, and then dividing it with the height in inches squared: BMI = [weight (kg) x 703] / height (in²).

Did you know?
Since 2005, Spain has banned models whose BMIs are lower than 18 to take the catwalk for fashion shows. This decision was made to help combat the growing risk of anorexia among young girls. The move has attracted much publicity, and other countries are aiming to follow it soon. As seen on the table above, the WHO considers women who have a BMI below 19.1 to be underweight and unhealthy.