BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) and determine your weight category based on height and weight.
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About This Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a value derived from a person's weight and height. It is a widely used method to categorize a person as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. BMI is calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by the square of your height (in meters).
What are the limitations of BMI?
BMI is a simple screening tool, but it has several limitations: it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat; it doesn't account for body composition, bone density, or distribution of fat; and it may not be accurate for athletes, elderly people, or certain ethnic groups. BMI should be considered alongside other health assessments.
What are the BMI categories?
The standard BMI categories for adults are: Underweight (BMI less than 18.5), Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9), Overweight (BMI 25-29.9), and Obese (BMI 30 or greater). These categories may have slightly different cutoffs in some countries or for specific populations.
Is BMI different for men and women?
The standard BMI calculation and categories are the same for adult men and women. However, at the same BMI, women typically have more body fat than men. Some newer body composition assessments take gender into account, but the basic BMI formula doesn't.
How accurate is BMI?
BMI is a useful screening tool at the population level, but it may not accurately reflect body fat levels for individuals. For example, a muscular athlete might have a high BMI but low body fat, while an elderly person might have a normal BMI but higher body fat. It's best used alongside other health assessments.