BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to measure body fat based on height and weight. Get insights on your weight status and potential health risks.
Enter Your Measurements
Enter Your Measurements
About Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It's a simple way to determine if your weight is appropriate for your height.
BMI Categories
BMI Limitations
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does have limitations:
- It doesn't directly measure body fat
- It doesn't account for muscle mass
- It may not be suitable for athletes or highly muscular individuals
- It doesn't consider factors like age, gender, ethnicity, or body composition
- It doesn't distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone mass
How to Use the BMI Calculator
Choose Your Preferred Unit
Select either the Metric (cm/kg) or Imperial (ft/in/lbs) tab depending on which units you're more comfortable with.
Enter Your Measurements
Input your height, weight, gender, and age accurately for the most reliable results.
View Your Results
After clicking "Calculate BMI", you'll see your BMI value, classification, and personalized health recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BMI and how is it calculated?
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It's calculated using the formula: BMI = weight(kg) / height²(m²). In imperial units, the formula is: BMI = 703 × weight(lbs) / height²(in²).
Is BMI accurate for everyone?
BMI is a good general indicator for most people, but it has limitations. It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or body composition. Athletes and very muscular individuals may have a high BMI despite low body fat. Similarly, older adults and those who have lost muscle may have a "normal" BMI despite having too much body fat.
What are the health risks associated with a high BMI?
A high BMI is associated with increased risk of various conditions including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, certain cancers, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and fatty liver disease. The risk increases as BMI increases.
Are there other ways to measure body fat besides BMI?
Yes, there are several other methods to measure body fat including waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, skinfold thickness measurements, bioelectrical impedance analysis, underwater weighing, air displacement plethysmography (Bod Pod), and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Each method has its own advantages and limitations.