BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to check your weight status.
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Your BMI Result
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Understanding Your BMI Result
What is a BMI Calculator?
A BMI Calculator is a simple tool used to measure Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. For adults, BMI is a widely used screening tool to quickly categorize weight status—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It’s a way to gauge if your weight is appropriate for your height based on a population-wide average. Our free BMI Calculator makes this calculation instant and easy, providing both your score and your weight category.
It’s important to remember that BMI is not a diagnostic tool. It is a screening method that helps identify potential weight issues in adults. It does not measure body fat directly, but research has shown that BMI is moderately correlated with more direct measures of body fat.
How is BMI Calculated?
Our BMI Calculator uses the standard metric formula, which is used by health professionals worldwide.
- Metric Formula: `BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m) * height (m))`
For example, if you are 1.75 meters tall (175 cm) and weigh 70 kilograms, your BMI would be `70 / (1.75 * 1.75)`, which equals 22.9. This falls into the “Healthy Weight” range.
Understanding the BMI Categories for Adults
This BMI Calculator uses the standard World Health Organization (WHO) categories. After you get your score, see where it falls below:
- Below 18.5: Underweight
- 18.5 – 24.9: Healthy Weight
- 25.0 – 29.9: Overweight
- 30.0 and Above: Obese
If your result falls into the overweight or obese categories, it may be an indicator of higher risk for certain health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
What Are the Limitations of BMI?
While our BMI Calculator is a useful screening tool, it’s crucial to understand its limitations. BMI is not a perfect measure of health for every individual. It does not account for:
- Muscle Mass vs. Fat: BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat. An athlete or bodybuilder may have a high BMI due to a large amount of muscle mass but be in excellent health.
- Age and Gender: The formula is the same for adult men and women, even though body composition naturally differs.
- Ethnic Background: Different ethnic groups may have different health risks at the same BMI.
- Fat Distribution: It doesn’t tell you *where* your fat is stored. Fat stored around the abdomen (visceral fat) is generally considered more harmful than fat stored in the hips and thighs.
Because of these limitations, you should always use your BMI result as a conversation starter with your doctor or a qualified health professional. They can perform a more comprehensive assessment of your health and risk factors.