⚖️ BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) instantly with our easy-to-use calculator. Understand your weight category and get insights into your health status. Supports both metric (kg, cm) and imperial (lbs, inches) units.
Disclaimer: This BMI calculator is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. BMI is a screening tool and may not accurately reflect body composition for athletes, pregnant women, elderly individuals, or certain ethnic groups. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized health assessments.
📊 BMI Categories (WHO Classification)
Underweight
< 18.5
Below healthy weight range
Normal Weight
18.5 - 24.9
Healthy weight range
Overweight
25.0 - 29.9
Above healthy weight
Obese
≥ 30.0
Significantly above healthy
🤔 What is BMI (Body Mass Index)?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used measure that assesses whether a person has a healthy weight for their height. It's calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²). Developed by Belgian mathematician Adolphe Quetelet in the 1830s, BMI has become a standard screening tool used by healthcare professionals worldwide.
While BMI is a useful indicator for most adults, it's important to understand that it's a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool. BMI doesn't directly measure body fat percentage or distinguish between muscle and fat mass. Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI despite having low body fat, while some individuals may have a normal BMI but high body fat percentage.
For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat and health risks associated with weight. It's particularly useful for tracking weight changes over time and identifying potential health concerns related to being underweight or overweight. However, it should be used alongside other health assessments for a complete picture of your health status.
📋 How to Calculate Your BMI
🔢 Metric System (kg, cm)
Formula:
BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m))²Example: If you weigh 70 kg and your height is 175 cm (1.75 m):
BMI = 70 ÷ (1.75)² = 70 ÷ 3.0625 = 22.86
📏 Imperial System (lbs, inches)
Formula:
BMI = (weight (lbs) / (height (in))²) × 703Example: If you weigh 154 lbs and your height is 69 inches:
BMI = (154 ÷ (69)²) × 703 = (154 ÷ 4761) × 703 = 22.75
💡 Understanding Your BMI Results
📉 Underweight (BMI < 18.5)
Being underweight may indicate malnutrition, eating disorders, or other health issues. It can lead to weakened immune system, osteoporosis, and fertility problems. Consult a healthcare professional if your BMI is in this range.
✅ Normal Weight (BMI 18.5 - 24.9)
A BMI in this range suggests a healthy weight for your height. Maintaining this range is associated with lower risk of chronic diseases and better overall health. Continue healthy eating habits and regular physical activity.
⚠️ Overweight (BMI 25.0 - 29.9)
Being overweight increases risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain cancers. Lifestyle changes including balanced diet and increased physical activity can help achieve a healthier weight.
🚨 Obese (BMI ≥ 30.0)
Obesity significantly increases health risks including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Medical intervention may be necessary. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized weight management strategies.
⚠️ BMI Limitations
• Athletes & Bodybuilders: High muscle mass can result in high BMI despite low body fat
• Elderly: May have normal BMI but higher body fat due to muscle loss with age
• Pregnant Women: BMI calculations are not accurate during pregnancy
• Children & Teens: Different BMI percentile charts are used for growing individuals
• Ethnic Variations: Health risks may occur at different BMI levels for different ethnicities
• Body Composition: Doesn't distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone mass
🎯 BMI Calculator - Your Path to Health Awareness
Our free online BMI calculator provides instant, accurate Body Mass Index calculations to help you understand your weight status. Whether you're monitoring your health, setting fitness goals, or tracking weight changes, this tool gives you immediate insights into how your weight relates to your height. With support for both metric and imperial measurement systems, anyone can quickly calculate their BMI and understand what it means for their health.
Regular BMI monitoring is an important part of maintaining good health. By tracking your BMI over time, you can identify trends and make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. Our calculator uses the standard WHO (World Health Organization) BMI classification system, providing you with internationally recognized health categories that help contextualize your results.
Remember that BMI is just one tool in assessing health. For a comprehensive health evaluation, consider consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your BMI, body composition, medical history, and overall health goals. Use this calculator as a starting point for health awareness and motivation for maintaining or achieving a healthy weight.