BMI Calculator Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index using your height and weight. This free calculator provides a simple educational estimate.
Your BMI Result
Adult BMI Categories
What Is BMI?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a commonly used screening measurement based on a person's weight and height.
BMI can provide a general indication of weight category, but it does not directly measure body fat and cannot determine overall health by itself.
How Is BMI Calculated?
BMI is calculated by dividing body weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height² (m²)
Adult BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI below 18.5
- Healthy weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25.0 to 29.9
- Obesity: BMI 30.0 or higher
What Does BMI Tell You?
BMI is primarily a screening measure. It can help identify whether a person's weight falls within a commonly used weight category for adults.
However, BMI does not distinguish between muscle mass, body fat, bone mass or differences in body composition.
Who Should Be Careful When Interpreting BMI?
Standard adult BMI categories may not be appropriate for children and teenagers. BMI can also be less informative for athletes, people with high muscle mass and some older adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BMI?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a screening measurement calculated using weight and height.
How is BMI calculated?
BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.
What is a healthy BMI?
For adults, a BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 is commonly classified as the healthy-weight range.
Is BMI the same as body fat percentage?
No. BMI uses height and weight and does not directly measure body fat percentage.
How accurate is a BMI calculator?
A BMI calculator provides a mathematical estimate based on height and weight. BMI is a screening measure and does not provide a complete assessment of individual health.
Can children use adult BMI categories?
Standard adult BMI categories should not be used to interpret BMI for children and teenagers. Age- and sex-specific assessment is generally required.
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Important Health Guides
BMI is a general screening measure and should not be considered a medical diagnosis.
BMI interpretation can differ for children, teenagers, older adults, athletes and people with different body compositions.
For personalized health or weight-management advice, consult a qualified healthcare professional.