Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator
Note: BMI does not directly measure body fat, but it is a widely used indicator to evaluate general weight status.
Warning: This calculator is not suitable for athletes, pregnant women, or children. Always consult a healthcare professional for accurate evaluation.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person’s weight and height that is commonly used to assess whether an individual has a healthy body weight for their height. It provides a simple, standardized way to categorize weight status in adults and is widely used in clinical and public health settings.
How BMI is Calculated
BMI is calculated using the following formula:
- Metric units:
- Imperial units (U.S. customary):
Example (Metric):
If someone weighs 70 kg and is 1.75 m tall:
Example (Imperial):
If someone weighs 154 lbs and is 69 inches tall:
BMI Categories (for adults aged 20 and older)
Note: These categories are general guidelines and may not account for factors like muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or ethnic differences.
Limitations of BMI
- Does not distinguish between fat, muscle, or bone mass (e.g., athletes may have a high BMI but low body fat).
- May not be accurate for older adults, children, pregnant women, or certain ethnic groups.
- Not a direct measure of body fat or health risk—used as a screening tool, not a diagnostic one.
For a more comprehensive health assessment, BMI is often used alongside other measures like waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle factors.