BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index to understand your weight relative to your height
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple measure of body fat based on your height and weight. It's calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. While BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, it provides a useful starting point for understanding whether your weight may be putting your health at risk. Healthcare professionals worldwide use BMI as a screening tool to identify potential weight-related health issues.
How is BMI Calculated?
The BMI formula is: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)². For imperial units, multiply by 703: BMI = weight (lbs) / height (in)² × 703. The result falls into categories: underweight (below 18.5), normal weight (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), and obese (30 and above). These categories help indicate potential health risks, though individual factors like muscle mass and body composition should also be considered.
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle mass and fat mass, so athletes or muscular individuals may have a high BMI despite being healthy. It also doesn't account for age, gender, ethnicity, or where body fat is distributed. For a complete picture of your health, consider BMI alongside other measurements like waist circumference, body fat percentage, and overall fitness level.