βοΈ BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index instantly. Get your BMI category and healthy weight range.
22.5
Your BMI
Normal Weight
15
18.5
25
30
40
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Min Healthy Weight
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Max Healthy Weight
Tool Features
- Dual Units: Calculate using Metric (kg/cm) or Imperial (lbs/ft) units.
- Instant Analysis: Get your specific BMI number and category immediately.
- Visual Scale: See exactly where you stand on the health spectrum.
- Health Ranges: Discover the precise weight range considered healthy for your height.
Understanding BMI
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool that measures the relationship between your height and weight. It's calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters (kg/mΒ²).
BMI Categories
| BMI Range | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Normal Weight |
| 25.0 - 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 & Above | Obesity |
Related Calculators
β Frequently Asked Questions
What is BMI and how is it calculated?
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BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters
squared. The formula is: BMI = weight (kg) / heightΒ² (mΒ²). For imperial units, the formula is: BMI =
(weight in pounds Γ 703) / height in inchesΒ².
What is a healthy BMI range?
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A healthy BMI is generally between 18.5 and 24.9. This range is associated with the lowest risk of
weight-related health problems. However, the ideal BMI can vary based on age, sex, muscle mass, and
ethnic background.
Is BMI accurate for athletes and muscular people?
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BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and people with high muscle mass because muscle weighs more
than fat. A bodybuilder could have a high BMI but low body fat. For these individuals, other measures
like body fat percentage or waist circumference may be more accurate.
Does BMI differ for men and women?
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The BMI formula is the same for both sexes, but body composition differs. Women naturally have more body
fat than men at the same BMI. That's why health recommendations may vary by sex, and BMI should be
considered alongside other health factors.
Can BMI be used for children?
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For children and teens, BMI is age and sex-specific (called BMI-for-age). Instead of using fixed
categories, a child's BMI is compared to other children of the same age and sex using percentile charts.
This calculator is designed for adults aged 20 and older.
What health risks are associated with high BMI?
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Higher BMI is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure,
stroke, sleep apnea, certain cancers, osteoarthritis, and mental health conditions. However, BMI alone
doesn't determine health status.
What are the limitations of BMI?
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BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle, doesn't indicate where fat is stored (belly fat is more
harmful), doesn't account for bone density variations, and may not be accurate for elderly people who
have lost muscle mass. It's best used as a screening tool, not a diagnostic one.
How can I achieve a healthy BMI?
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Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Combine
this with regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly). Gradual,
sustainable changes are more effective than crash diets. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized
advice.
Is underweight BMI also unhealthy?
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Yes, being underweight (BMI below 18.5) can also pose health risks including weakened immune system,
nutritional deficiencies, bone loss, fertility issues, and higher risk of complications from surgeries
or illness. If you're underweight, consult a healthcare provider.
How often should I check my BMI?
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For most adults, checking BMI once or twice a year is sufficient unless you're actively working on
weight management. Track trends over time rather than daily fluctuations. If you're monitoring weight
loss or gain, weekly weigh-ins under consistent conditions are more helpful.