BMI
Calculator

Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) with detailed health insights and personalized recommendations. Track your health status and get weight management guidance.

cm
kg
years

How to Use the BMI Calculator

Enter Measurements

Input your height and weight in metric or imperial units.

Example: 175 cm, 70 kg → BMI: 22.86

View Category

See which BMI category you fall into with color coding.

Categories: Underweight, Normal, Overweight, Obese

Health Insights

Get personalized health recommendations based on your BMI.

Includes: Diet tips, exercise suggestions, health risks

Weight Goals

See your healthy weight range and weight loss/gain targets.

Personalized: Based on height, age, and gender

Understanding BMI

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It's calculated using the formula: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)²

BMI Categories

  • Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
  • Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
  • Overweight: BMI 25-29.9
  • Obese: BMI 30 or greater

Limitations

BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass. Athletes with high muscle mass may have high BMI but low body fat. Consult healthcare professionals for comprehensive health assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is BMI accurate for everyone?

BMI is a useful screening tool but has limitations. It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or body composition. Athletes and very muscular individuals may have high BMI despite being healthy.

2. What's a healthy BMI range?

A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal or healthy weight. However, optimal BMI can vary based on age, ethnicity, and individual health factors.

3. How often should I check my BMI?

For general health monitoring, checking BMI monthly is sufficient. If you're actively trying to lose or gain weight, weekly measurements can help track progress.

4. Can BMI be used for children?

BMI calculation is the same for children, but interpretation differs. Children's BMI is compared to age and gender-specific percentiles rather than adult categories.

5. What if my BMI is outside the normal range?

If your BMI is outside the normal range, consider consulting a healthcare provider. They can assess your overall health and provide personalized recommendations.

6. Does age affect BMI interpretation?

While BMI calculation doesn't change with age, interpretation may vary. Older adults might have different healthy weight ranges, and muscle mass naturally decreases with age.

7. Is BMI different for men and women?

The BMI calculation and categories are the same for men and women. However, women typically have higher body fat percentage at the same BMI due to biological differences.

8. What other measurements complement BMI?

Waist circumference, body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio, and overall fitness level provide a more complete picture of health than BMI alone.

9. Can I use BMI to set weight loss goals?

BMI can help establish general weight goals, but focus on gradual, sustainable changes. Aim for 1-2 pounds per week weight loss for safe and effective results.

10. Should I be concerned about muscle weight?

Muscle is denser than fat, so building muscle can increase weight and BMI even when losing fat. Focus on overall health markers rather than just BMI numbers.