BMI Calculator
Use our calculator to check your body mass index (BMI) and find out if you are a healthy weight. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. We have published this calculator because BMI can be an important factor when applying for life insurance and health insurance.
Related guides: Jenny Craig Review and Weight Watchers Review
Underweight (BMI less than 18.5)
Healthy Weight (BMI 18.5 to 24.9)
Overweight (BMI 25 to 30)
Obese (BMI 30 +)
Your suggested healthy weight range 53 117 - 72 159kgLbs
Your BMI indicates you are underweight, which could be a sign you're not eating enough or may be ill. It's a good idea to consult your GP.
Keep up the excellent work. It's also recommended that you check your waist measurement to make sure you are not storing excess fat. You can keep within your optimal weight range by enjoying a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercising regularly. Health professionals suggest adults should get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days.
For older New Zealanders, your general health may be more important than being mildly overweight. Some researchers have suggested that a BMI range of 22-26 is acceptable for New Zealanders over 70 years old.
Your BMI indicates you are overweight. The fastest and safest way to lose weight is through a combination of diet and exercise, and leading medical research suggests cutting out as many carbohydrates as possible.
Your BMI indicates you are obese. The fastest and safest way to lose weight is through a combination of diet and exercise, and leading medical research suggests cutting out as many carbohydrates as possible.
BMI: Ethnic groups and the relevance of waist size
- 23 or more are at increased risk
- 27.5 or more are at high risk
Why waist size also matters
- Measuring your waist is a good way to check you're not carrying too much fat around your stomach, which can raise your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke.
- You can have a healthy BMI and still have excess tummy fat – meaning you're still at risk of developing these conditions.
To measure your waist:
- Find the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips.
- Wrap a tape measure around your waist midway between these points.
- Breathe out naturally before taking the measurement.
Regardless of your height or BMI, you should try to lose weight if your waist is:
- 94cm (37ins) or more for men
- 80cm (31.5ins) or more for women
You're at very high risk and should contact your GP if your waist is:
- 102cm (40ins) or more for men
- 88cm (34ins) or more for women
