BMI Calculator

Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) and assess your weight category

ft
in
16 18.5 25 30 40
--.-- kg/m²
Calculate your BMI

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value calculated from a person's weight and height. It provides a simple way to classify weight status that may indicate health risks related to being underweight or overweight.

How is BMI Calculated?

BMI is calculated using the following formula:

BMI = weight(kg) / height²(m²)

In imperial units, the formula includes a conversion factor:

BMI = [weight(lb) / height²(in²)] × 703

BMI Weight Categories

BMI Range Weight Category
Below 16 Severe Thinness
16.0 - 16.9 Moderate Thinness
17.0 - 18.4 Mild Thinness
18.5 - 24.9 Normal Weight
25.0 - 29.9 Overweight
30.0 - 34.9 Obese Class I
35.0 - 39.9 Obese Class II
40.0 and above Obese Class III

Limitations of BMI

While BMI is a useful tool for population-level assessment, it has several limitations:

  • It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or overall body composition
  • It doesn't distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone
  • It doesn't consider where fat is stored in the body
  • It may not be accurate for athletes, elderly people, or pregnant women

Health Implications

Being in certain BMI categories may increase your risk for health conditions:

  • Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, anemia, osteoporosis
  • Normal Weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): Generally lowest health risks
  • Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): Heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes
  • Obese (BMI 30+): Heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, certain cancers, type 2 diabetes

Important Note:

BMI is just one measure of health. It should be used alongside other methods like waist circumference, body fat percentage, and clinical assessments. Always consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive evaluation of your health status.