BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if your weight is in a healthy range for your height.
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value of your weight in relation to your height. It is a commonly used method to categorize whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height. The formula for BMI is weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m²).
BMI Categories
| BMI Range | Weight Category | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight | Increased risk for health problems |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Normal weight | Lowest risk for health problems |
| 25.0 - 29.9 | Overweight | Increased risk for health problems |
| 30.0 - 34.9 | Obesity (Class 1) | High risk for health problems |
| 35.0 - 39.9 | Obesity (Class 2) | Very high risk for health problems |
| 40.0 and above | Obesity (Class 3) | Extremely high risk for health problems |
BMI Formula
BMI = weight(kg) / height²(m²)
For those using imperial measurements:
BMI = 703 × weight(lb) / height²(in²)
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful tool for assessing weight categories in the general population, it has several limitations:
- It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or overall body composition
- Athletes with high muscle mass may be categorized as overweight or obese despite having low body fat
- It doesn't consider where fat is stored in the body (abdominal fat poses higher health risks)
- It may not be accurate for elderly individuals who have lost muscle mass
- Different ethnic groups may have different associations between BMI and health risks
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
BMI is just one screening tool and should not be used as a diagnostic tool. If you have concerns about your weight or health, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a more comprehensive assessment.