BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and understand what it means for your health
Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator
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About Our BMI Calculator
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height. It provides a simple way to classify whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height. BMI is widely used as a general indicator of whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height.
Our BMI calculator allows you to quickly determine your BMI using either metric (kilograms, centimeters) or imperial (pounds, feet, inches) units. The calculator also provides information about your BMI category and what it means for your health.
How BMI is Calculated
BMI is calculated using the following formulas:
- Metric units: BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]²
- Imperial units: BMI = 703 × weight (lbs) / [height (in)]²
BMI Categories
BMI values are categorized as follows:
- Below 18.5: Underweight
- 18.5 to 24.9: Normal weight
- 25.0 to 29.9: Overweight
- 30.0 and above: Obese
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful tool for assessing weight status in most adults, it does have limitations:
- It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI without excess fat.
- It doesn't account for age, gender, ethnicity, or body composition.
- It may not be accurate for pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, or growing children and teens.
BMI should be used as one of several tools to assess health and weight status. For a comprehensive assessment, consult with a healthcare professional.
Using Our BMI Calculator
To use our BMI calculator:
- Select your preferred unit system (metric or imperial)
- Enter your height and weight
- Click "Calculate BMI" to see your results
The calculator will display your BMI value, category, and a healthy weight range for your height. You can also view your calculation history and switch between unit systems at any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a healthy BMI range?
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal or healthy weight for most adults. However, what's considered healthy can vary based on factors like age, ethnicity, and body composition.
Is BMI accurate for everyone?
BMI is a general indicator and may not be accurate for athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, or certain ethnic groups. It doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass.
How often should I check my BMI?
For most adults, checking BMI a few times a year is sufficient. If you're actively trying to lose or gain weight, you might check more frequently, but focus on trends rather than daily fluctuations.
What should I do if my BMI is outside the healthy range?
If your BMI is outside the healthy range, consider consulting a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health, lifestyle, and other factors.
Can children use this BMI calculator?
This calculator is designed for adults. BMI for children and teens is calculated differently and interpreted using age and gender-specific percentiles. Please consult a pediatrician for children's BMI assessment.
Is my BMI data saved or shared?
Your BMI calculations are stored locally on your device for your convenience (calculation history). We do not collect, store, or share your personal health data on our servers.