Your BMI Result:
BMI Categories
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | Below 18.5 |
| Normal weight | 18.5 - 24.9 |
| Overweight | 25 - 29.9 |
| Obesity Class I | 30 - 34.9 |
| Obesity Class II | 35 - 39.9 |
| Obesity Class III | 40 and above |
BMI Calculator: Determine Your Body Mass Index
Use our free BMI calculator tool to determine your Body Mass Index and learn what it means for your health. BMI is a simple screening method that can indicate whether you're at a healthy weight for your height.
Understanding Body Mass Index
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity.
Why is BMI Important?
BMI correlates with amount of body fat and can be an indicator of health risks. High BMI can be a sign of too much body fat, while low BMI may indicate too little body fat. Both situations may lead to health problems.
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it does have limitations. It doesn't directly measure body fat and doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences. For athletes and muscular individuals, BMI may overestimate body fat. For older adults, it may underestimate body fat.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and can help prevent and control many diseases and conditions.
BMI Calculator FAQ
How often should I check my BMI?
For most adults, checking your BMI once every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight. Remember that daily weight fluctuations are normal and often related to hydration levels.
Is BMI accurate for athletes?
BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with more muscular builds because muscle weighs more than fat. In these cases, additional measurements like waist circumference or body fat percentage may provide a better assessment.
Can children use this BMI calculator?
This calculator is designed for adults. BMI for children and teens is interpreted differently relative to age and sex. For accurate pediatric BMI assessment, consult a healthcare provider or use specialized growth charts.
What's a healthy BMI range?
For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. This range is associated with the lowest risk of health problems.
More Health & Fitness Calculators
