Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if you're at a healthy weight for your height. Use imperial or metric units for accurate results.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]². BMI is used as a screening tool to identify whether a person is underweight, at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese.
While BMI is a useful indicator for most people, it has limitations. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so athletes or very muscular individuals may have a high BMI without excess body fat.
BMI = (weight in pounds × 703) / (height in inches)²
Example: A person who weighs 150 pounds and is 5'8" (68 inches) tall has a BMI of 22.8
BMI = weight in kilograms / (height in meters)²
Example: A person who weighs 70 kg and is 1.75 m tall has a BMI of 22.9
Being underweight can indicate malnutrition, eating disorders, or other health problems. Risks include weakened immune system, osteoporosis, and fertility issues.
This range is associated with the lowest health risks. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise is important for long-term health.
Being overweight increases risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers. Modest weight loss can significantly reduce these risks.
Obesity significantly increases risk of serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and sleep apnea. Medical intervention may be recommended.
Does not distinguish between muscle mass and fat mass - athletes may have high BMI without excess fat
Does not account for fat distribution (visceral vs. subcutaneous fat)
May not be accurate for older adults who naturally lose muscle mass
Does not consider bone density or body frame size differences
May not be accurate for pregnant or breastfeeding women
Different ethnic groups may have different health risks at the same BMI