BMI Calculator - Check Your Body Mass Index Online
Understanding BMI Calculator
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in metres squared. Our BMI calculator makes this calculation effortless.
How to Use the BMI Calculator
Using our BMI calculator is straightforward:
- Enter your weight (in kg or lbs)
- Enter your height (in cm, meters, feet, or inches)
- Click "Calculate" to get your BMI value
- The calculator will also show which BMI category you fall into
BMI Categories
BMI values are generally categorized as follows:
- Under 18.5 - Underweight
- 18.5 to 24.9 - Normal weight
- 25 to 29.9 - Overweight
- 30 to 34.9 - Obesity class I
- 35 to 39.9 - Obesity class II
- 40 and above - Obesity class III
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful tool, it has some limitations to be aware of:
Muscle vs. Fat
BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI but low body fat.
Different Body Types
BMI doesn't account for differences in body composition between genders, age groups, and ethnicities.
Other Factors
BMI doesn't consider factors like bone density, muscle mass, or distribution of fat.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While our BMI calculator provides a good starting point, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. This is particularly important if:
- Your BMI falls into the underweight or obese categories
- You've experienced significant weight changes recently
- You have existing health conditions
- You're pregnant, elderly, or an athlete
Our BMI calculator is designed as an educational tool to help you understand your body mass index. It's not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.