BMI Calculator

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on your height and weight. It's calculated using the formula: BMI = weight(kg) / height(m)². For example, if you weigh 70kg and are 1.75m tall, your BMI would be 70 / (1.75 × 1.75) = 22.9.

BMI is a useful screening tool but has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may show as "overweight" despite being healthy. It also doesn't account for factors like age, sex, ethnicity, or body fat distribution. Use it as a general guide, not a definitive health measure.

According to the World Health Organization, a healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. Below 18.5 is considered underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is classified as obese. These ranges may vary slightly for different ethnicities and age groups.

Standard BMI calculations don't apply to children and teens in the same way. For people under 20, BMI is interpreted using age and sex-specific percentile charts. Consult a pediatrician for proper assessment of a child's weight status.

If your BMI is outside the healthy range, consider consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health, lifestyle, and goals. Small, sustainable changes to diet and exercise are usually most effective.

No, BMI doesn't differentiate between muscle and fat. This is why athletes, bodybuilders, and people with high muscle mass may have a high BMI but low body fat percentage. For these individuals, other measurements like body fat percentage or waist-to-hip ratio may be more useful indicators.