Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used tool that helps assess whether a person has a healthy body weight in relation to their height.
It provides a simple numerical value that can be used to categorize weight status and potential health risks.
While BMI does not directly measure body fat, it offers a general indication of whether your weight falls within a healthy range.
BMI is calculated using the following formula:
BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]²
For example, a person who weighs 70 kg and is 1.75 m tall would have a BMI of 22.9.
Although BMI is a useful screening tool, it does not account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution.
For a more complete evaluation of your health, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional.
BMI (kg/m²) | Interpretation |
Under 16,5 | Severely underweight |
From 16,5 to 18,5 | Underweight |
From 18,5 to 25 | Normal (healthy weight) |
From 25 to 30 | Overweight |
From 30 to 35 | Obese Class I (Moderately obese) |
From 35 to 40 | Obese Class II (Severely obese) |
Over 40 | Obese Class III (Very severely obese) |
The Lorentz Formula is a simple mathematical method used to estimate an individual's ideal body weight based on their height and sex.
It was developed by the French physician Paul Lorentz in the early 20th century and remains a popular tool in Europe.
While it does not take into account body composition (such as muscle or fat mass), it provides a quick reference point for evaluating weight in relation to height.
The Lorentz Formula differs slightly for men and women:
Example: A woman who is 165 cm tall would have an ideal weight of:
165 - 100 - [(165 - 150) / 2] = 65 - 7.5 = 57.5 kg
The Lorentz Formula gives an estimate, not an absolute value. It does not account for muscle mass, bone structure, or overall body composition.
For a more accurate picture of your health, consider combining it with other tools such as BMI or body fat analysis.