Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess whether you're underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Get instant results with health recommendations and BMI category classifications.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used measurement that indicates whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height. It's calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (or using equivalent imperial measurements with a conversion factor).
BMI provides a simple numeric measure that allows healthcare professionals and individuals to classify weight categories and assess potential health risks associated with being underweight, overweight, or obese.
| BMI Range | Category | Health Implications | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 18.5 | Underweight | Increased risk of osteoporosis, immune deficiency | Consult healthcare provider, increase caloric intake |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Normal Weight | Lower risk of weight-related health problems | Maintain current weight through healthy lifestyle |
| 25.0 - 29.9 | Overweight | Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes | Consider weight loss through diet and exercise |
| 30.0 - 34.9 | Obesity Class I | High risk of health complications | Medical supervision recommended for weight loss |
| 35.0 - 39.9 | Obesity Class II | Very high risk of health complications | Immediate medical intervention recommended |
| ≥ 40.0 | Obesity Class III | Extremely high risk of health complications | Urgent medical care and intervention required |
Body Composition: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass. Athletes with high muscle mass may have elevated BMI despite being very healthy.
Age Considerations: BMI may be less accurate for older adults who naturally lose muscle mass and bone density with age.
Ethnic Variations: Different ethnic groups may have different body compositions and health risk profiles at the same BMI levels.
Distribution of Fat: BMI doesn't account for where fat is stored in the body. Abdominal fat carries higher health risks than fat stored in hips and thighs.
Underweight Risks:
Overweight and Obesity Risks:
Screening Tool: BMI serves as an initial screening tool to identify potential weight-related health risks, but should be combined with other assessments.
Trend Monitoring: Tracking BMI changes over time can help monitor weight management progress and overall health trends.
Population Studies: BMI is valuable for comparing health statistics across different populations and demographics.
Clinical Applications: Healthcare providers use BMI alongside other measurements like waist circumference, blood pressure, and lab tests for comprehensive health assessment.