Ponderal Index Calculator
Calculate your Ponderal Index (Corpulence Index) - a more accurate alternative to BMI
Calculate Your Ponderal Index
Height in centimeters
Weight in kilograms
Ponderal Index Results
Health Analysis
Example Calculations
Adult Example
Height: 175 cm (5 feet 9 inches)
Weight: 70 kg (154 lbs)
PI Calculation: 70 ÷ (1.75)³ = 70 ÷ 5.36 = 13.06
Category: Normal weight (11-15)
BMI Comparison: 22.9 (Normal weight)
Infant Example
Height: 50 cm (newborn)
Weight: 3.2 kg (7.05 lbs)
PI Calculation: 3,200g ÷ (50)³ = 3,200 ÷ 125,000 = 2.56
Category: Normal weight (2.2-3.0)
Health Status: Healthy birth weight
Tall Adult Example (PI vs BMI)
Height: 195 cm (6 feet 5 inches)
Weight: 90 kg (198 lbs)
PI Calculation: 90 ÷ (1.95)³ = 90 ÷ 7.41 = 12.15
PI Category: Normal weight (11-15)
BMI: 23.7 (Normal, but PI is more accurate for tall individuals)
Ponderal Index Ranges
Adults & Children (6+)
Infants & Newborns
PI vs BMI Comparison
PI uses height³, BMI uses height²
More accurate for very tall or short individuals
Better for children and adolescents
Reduces false obesity diagnoses
Essential for infant nutrition assessment
Health Tips
PI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool
Consider both PI and BMI for complete assessment
For infants, consult pediatrician for interpretation
Always consult healthcare providers for medical advice
Understanding Ponderal Index (Corpulence Index)
What is Ponderal Index?
The Ponderal Index (PI), also known as Corpulence Index or Rohrer's Index, is a measure of body composition that uses height cubed instead of height squared (like BMI). This makes it more accurate for individuals who are very tall or very short.
Why Use Ponderal Index?
- •More accurate than BMI for extreme heights
- •Better assessment tool for children and adolescents
- •Reduces false obesity diagnoses in tall individuals
- •Essential for infant nutrition and growth assessment
Formulas
For Adults & Children (6+):
PI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height (m)³
For Infants & Newborns:
PI = Weight (g) ÷ Height (cm)³
Clinical Applications
- !Pediatric nutrition assessment
- !Intrauterine growth restriction diagnosis
- !Obesity screening in research studies
- !Alternative to BMI for specific populations
Medical Disclaimer: Ponderal Index is a screening tool and should not replace professional medical assessment. Always consult healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis and treatment.