BMI Calculator
BMI
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BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure.
What is a BMI Calculator?
A BMI (Body Mass Index) calculator estimates whether your weight is in a healthy range for your height. It is a simple screening tool used by doctors and health professionals worldwide, though it has known limitations and should not be used as a sole measure of health.
How It Works
Example
A person who is 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) and weighs 160 lbs (72.6 kg).
- BMI = 72.6 / (1.78 x 1.78) = 22.9 - Normal weight
Tips
- BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletes with high muscle mass often show as overweight despite being very lean.
- BMI categories were defined using predominantly white European populations and may be less accurate for people of Asian or African descent.
- Use BMI as a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, not as a diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a healthy BMI?
For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. However, these thresholds are population averages. Individual health depends on many factors beyond BMI, including muscle mass, bone density, and where body fat is distributed.
Is BMI accurate for athletes?
Often not. BMI cannot distinguish between muscle and fat. A highly muscular person may have a BMI in the overweight range while carrying very little body fat. For athletes, body fat percentage is a more useful measure.
Does BMI apply to children?
BMI is calculated the same way for children, but interpreted differently. For ages 2 to 19, BMI is compared to growth charts for the same age and sex rather than fixed cutoffs. This calculator is designed for adults.
What should I do if my BMI is outside the normal range?
Talk to your doctor. BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Your doctor will consider other factors including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, family history, and lifestyle before drawing any health conclusions.