What is a limitation of BMI as a measurement tool?

BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a widely used measurement tool that calculates an individual’s body weight in relation to their height. One of the significant limitations of BMI is that it does not differentiate between muscle mass and fat mass. This means that a person with a high muscle mass might be classified as overweight or obese, even if they have a low body fat percentage and are physically fit. Conversely, someone with a normal BMI may still have a high percentage of body fat and be at risk for health issues.

This aspect of BMI makes it a less comprehensive measure of health and body composition compared to other methods, such as body fat percentage measurements or waist-to-hip ratio. Therefore, relying solely on BMI can provide an incomplete picture of an individual's health status. The absence of differentiation between muscle and fat is crucial for those who are athletes or those with higher levels of fitness, as it might not adequately reflect their body composition and health risks.