BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and understand your health risk.
What is a BMI Calculator?
The BMI calculator helps you estimate your Body Mass Index, a screening tool for weight category and health risk. Enter your weight and height to get your BMI and see which category you fall into.
The BMI calculator helps you estimate your Body Mass Index, a screening tool for weight category and health risk. Enter your weight and height to get your BMI and see which category you fall into.
Estimated Summary
Enter your weight and height to see your BMI result here.
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used screening tool for categorizing weight status in adults. It is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared (kg/m²).
BMI Categories for Adults
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| < 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal weight |
| 25 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 or above | Obese |
BMI is a useful indicator for most adults, but it may not be accurate for athletes, children, or the elderly. For more details, see our Ideal Weight Calculator.
Why is BMI Important?
- Helps assess risk for chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
- Provides a quick screening for underweight, overweight, and obesity.
- Used by healthcare professionals worldwide.
How to Build and Maintain a Healthy BMI
Achieving and maintaining a healthy BMI is a combination of balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some evidence-based tips:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive saturated fats.
- Control Portion Sizes: Be mindful of serving sizes and avoid overeating, even with healthy foods.
- Stay Physically Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking or cycling) per week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days per week.
- Monitor Your Weight: Track your weight and BMI regularly to stay aware of changes and make adjustments as needed.
- Get Enough Sleep: Poor sleep can affect hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, making weight management more difficult.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can lead to unhealthy eating habits and weight gain. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If you struggle to reach a healthy BMI, consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Remember, BMI is just one indicator of health. Focus on overall well-being, including mental and physical health, rather than a single number.
Frequently Asked Questions about BMI
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is calculated as:
BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]².
For adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.
BMI is a general guideline and may not be accurate for athletes, children, pregnant women, or the elderly. For a more personalized assessment, consult a healthcare provider.
References
Additional FAQs
BMI for children is calculated differently and takes age and sex into account. Consult a pediatrician for accurate assessment.
To lower your BMI, focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.