However, BMI alone cannot predict health or medical history. LeBron James is a 16-time NBA All-Star, with a BMI of 26.8. Six-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady has a BMI of 27.4.

Take for example, basketball player Michael Jordan: ''When he was in his prime, his BMI was 27-29, classifying him as overweight, yet his waist size was less than 30,'' says Michael Roizen, MD. That's one reason some experts think waist circumference can be a better overall health measurement than BMI.