Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple and widely used method to assess whether a person’s weight is healthy relative to their height. It provides an indication of body fat, which can help you understand whether you fall into one of several weight categories: underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. The BMI is not a diagnostic tool but serves as a useful reference point for assessing general health.

The formula for BMI is straightforward:
BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m)²)

This tool divides your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. For example, if you weigh 74 kg and are 1.65 meters tall, your BMI would be:
BMI = 74 / (1.65 × 1.65) = 27.2

This value of 27.2 would place you in the overweight category. Different BMI ranges correspond to specific weight categories:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 24.9
• Overweight: 25 ≤ BMI < 29.9
• Obesity: BMI ≥ 30

Why Is BMI Important?

BMI can be an essential tool for identifying potential health risks. People with high BMI values (overweight or obese) may have an increased risk of developing chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. On the other hand, low BMI values may indicate malnutrition, osteoporosis, or other health problems. However, while BMI offers a general guideline, it’s not a perfect measure.

Since BMI only takes into account weight and height, it does not differentiate between muscle and fat. This means that highly muscular individuals (like athletes) may have a high BMI but low body fat percentage, making them appear overweight or obese according to BMI charts. Similarly, older adults may have a normal BMI but higher body fat percentage due to muscle loss. Thus, it is helpful to use BMI in combination with other measurements, such as waist circumference and body fat percentage, for a more comprehensive health assessment.

How to Use the Calculator

To calculate your BMI, simply enter your weight in kilograms and height in centimeters into the fields provided below. Then, click the “Calculate BMI” button to instantly receive your result. Your BMI will be displayed along with the corresponding weight category, helping you understand where you stand.

Keep in mind that BMI is only one piece of the puzzle. If your BMI falls outside the “normal” range, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional to assess your health more comprehensively.

Now, try the calculator below to discover your BMI and see where you stand!