When it comes to your health journey, getting to know your body is the most important first step. And while the number on the scale tells part of the story, your Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference can give you a much clearer picture of your overall health and help you set truly meaningful goals.
What Exactly is BMI and How is It Calculated?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a standard tool used to estimate if your weight is healthy in proportion to your height. It’s a simple screening tool to identify potential risks associated with being underweight or overweight.
You can calculate it with a simple formula:
BMI = Weight (kg) / [Height (m) x Height (m)]
For example, if you weigh 75 kg and are 164 cm tall (which is 1.64 meters):
Your calculation would be: 75 ÷ (1.64 x 1.64) = 27.9
Therefore, your BMI is approximately 27.9.
But you don't need to worry about the math—Wello automatically calculates your BMI for you based on the weight and height information you provided during setup.
Understanding Your BMI Results
It's important to know that BMI standards can vary by ethnicity, as health risks for Asian populations often begin at a lower BMI. Below are both standard classifications for a complete picture.
Standard Classification (WHO/Western)
Below 18.5: Underweight
18.5 - 24.9: Healthy / Normal Weight
25.0 - 29.9: Overweight
30.0 - 34.9: Obesity Class I
35.0 - 39.9: Obesity Class II
40.0 or higher: Obesity Class III (Morbid Obesity)
Classification for Asian Adults
Below 18.5: Underweight
18.5 - 22.9: Healthy / Normal Weight
23.0 - 24.9: Overweight
25.0 - 29.9: Obesity Class I
30.0 - 34.9: Obesity Class II
35.0 or higher: Obesity Class III (Morbid Obesity)
Why Your Waist Measurement Matters, Too ?
BMI is helpful, but it doesn't tell the whole story. It can't distinguish between fat and muscle, and crucially, it doesn't show where your body stores fat.
That’s why your waist measurement is so important. Fat stored around your abdomen (known as visceral fat) is more closely linked to health risks like Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease than fat in other areas because it surrounds your vital organs.
How to Measure Your Waist Correctly
Measuring your waist at home is easy. All you need is a flexible tape measure.
Wrap the tape measure around your bare midsection, keeping it level with the floor.
Find the right spot: it’s halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone (usually right around your belly button).
Breathe out normally and check the measurement. Don't suck your stomach in.
Interpreting the Results:
For good health, your waist circumference should ideally be below:
Men: 90 cm (approx. 35.5 inches)
Women: 80 cm (approx. 31.5 inches)
Another helpful guide: your waist circumference should be less than half of your height. For example, if you are 160 cm tall, your waist should measure less than 80 cm.
Take a moment to measure your waist and check the BMI in your app profile. Please see these numbers as a 'starting point,' not a 'judgment point.' They are simply powerful tools to help you and Wello plan the most effective and personalized health journey for you.