Overweight Calculator
Determine if you're overweight based on your BMI and by how much, with personalized recommendations.
Category: Fitness & Health
Frequently Asked Questions
What BMI is considered overweight?
A Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9 is classified as overweight for adults. A BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obesity, which is further categorized into class I (30-34.9), class II (35-39.9), and class III (40 or higher) obesity.
How accurate is BMI for determining if someone is overweight?
BMI is a useful screening tool, but it has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so athletic individuals with high muscle mass may be classified as overweight despite having healthy body composition. It also doesn't account for factors like age, gender, ethnicity, and fat distribution, which can affect health risks.
What are the health risks of being overweight?
Being overweight increases the risk of various health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, certain types of cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease, kidney disease, and pregnancy complications. The risk generally increases with higher BMI values.
What's the healthiest way to lose weight if I'm overweight?
The healthiest approach to weight loss typically involves a combination of moderate calorie reduction (about 500-1000 calories less per day for a 1-2 pound weekly loss), increased physical activity (both cardio and strength training), and behavioral changes. Focus on nutritious whole foods, adequate protein intake, portion control, and sustainable lifestyle changes rather than extreme diets.