BMI Calculator

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation that uses your height and weight to determine if you're in a healthy weight range. While BMI is a useful screening tool, it's important to remember that it doesn't directly measure body fat or account for muscle mass, bone density, and other factors.

How BMI is Calculated

BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared (kg/m²). For imperial units, the formula is: (weight in pounds × 703) ÷ (height in inches)².

BMI Categories

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25.0-29.9
• Obese: BMI 30.0 and above

Limitations of BMI

BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI but low body fat. Similarly, older adults may have a normal BMI but higher body fat percentage. BMI also doesn't account for fat distribution, which can affect health risks.

Health Implications

While BMI is a useful starting point, it should be considered alongside other health indicators such as waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall fitness. Consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive health assessment.