BMI Calculator

Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if your weight is in a healthy range for your height.

Calculate Your BMI Calculator

170 cm
70 kg

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters.

BMI = weight(kg) / height(m)²

While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does have limitations. It may overestimate body fat in athletes and others who have a muscular build, and it may underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle.

BMI Categories

Underweight: BMI less than 18.5

May indicate nutritional deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or other health issues.

Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9

Generally associated with lower risk of weight-related health problems.

Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9

May increase risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.

Obesity: BMI 30 or higher

Higher risk of serious health problems including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Limitations of BMI

  • Does not distinguish between fat and muscle mass
  • Does not account for body fat distribution
  • May not be accurate for athletes, elderly, or pregnant women
  • Does not account for different body types and ethnic variations
  • Cannot diagnose health conditions on its own

Tips for Healthy Weight Management

  • Focus on balanced nutrition with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
  • Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours for most adults)
  • Manage stress through healthy coping mechanisms
  • Consult healthcare professionals before making significant lifestyle changes

Related Calculators

Body Fat Calculator

Estimate body fat percentage using various measurement methods

Frequently Asked Questions

A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered within the healthy weight range for adults. However, this can vary based on factors like age, ethnicity, and muscle mass.

BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle, so it may overestimate body fat in athletes and people with muscular builds. It also doesn't consider age, gender, ethnicity, or where fat is stored in the body, which can affect health risks.

BMI is a screening tool that can identify potential weight issues, but it cannot diagnose health conditions or predict individual health risks. High BMI is associated with increased risk for certain conditions like heart disease and diabetes, but other factors must be considered for a complete health assessment.

No, children and teens should use age and gender-specific BMI calculators. Growth patterns differ during development, so children's BMI is assessed using percentiles compared to other children of the same age and gender.

The BMI calculation is the same regardless of gender, but interpretations may differ. Women typically have more body fat than men with the same BMI. Some health professionals use different BMI thresholds or additional measurements like waist circumference when assessing individuals.

For most adults, checking BMI once or twice a year is sufficient. More frequent monitoring may be recommended if you're actively trying to lose weight or are under medical supervision for weight-related health issues.

Waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat percentage, and skinfold measurements can provide additional information about body composition and health risks. These measurements, combined with BMI, give a more complete picture of health status.

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