BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and understand what it means for your health
Calculate Your BMI
Your BMI Result
Your BMI suggests that your weight is in the healthy range for your height. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise will help you stay healthy.
< 18.5
18.5 - 24.9
25 - 29.9
≥ 30
Understanding BMI
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared.
Why is BMI Important?
BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
- Obesity: BMI 30 or greater
Health Implications
Maintaining a healthy BMI is important for overall health:
- Underweight individuals may have nutritional deficiencies and weakened immunity
- Normal weight reduces risk of chronic diseases
- Overweight increases risk of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease
- Obesity significantly increases health risks and reduces life expectancy
BMI Limitations
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it has limitations:
- Does not directly measure body fat
- May overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass
- May underestimate body fat in older persons who have lost muscle mass
- Does not account for distribution of fat (visceral vs. subcutaneous)
For a comprehensive health assessment, consult with a healthcare professional.
Maintaining a Healthy BMI
To achieve and maintain a healthy BMI:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engage in regular physical activity (150 minutes/week of moderate exercise)
- Monitor portion sizes and avoid processed foods
- Get adequate sleep and manage stress
- Consult a healthcare provider before making significant lifestyle changes