BMI Calculator

Check Your Body Mass Index & Health Status

👨 Male
👩 Female

Understanding BMI (Body Mass Index)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in metres squared. A BMI of 25.0 or more is overweight, while the healthy range is 18.5 to 24.9.

BMI Table for Adults

BMI Weight Status
Below 18.5 Underweight
18.5–24.9 Healthy Weight
25.0–29.9 Overweight
30.0 and Above Obesity

BMI for Children and Teens (Age 2-20)

For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific and is often referred to as BMI-for-age. The calculation is the same as for adults, but the interpretation differs based on percentiles.

Percentile Range Weight Status
Less than 5th percentile Underweight
5th to less than 85th percentile Healthy Weight
85th to less than 95th percentile Overweight
95th percentile or greater Obesity

Risks Associated with Being Overweight

Being overweight or obese increases the risk of many health problems, including:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease and strokes
  • Certain types of cancer
  • Sleep apnea
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fatty liver disease
  • Kidney disease

Risks Associated with Being Underweight

Being underweight can also lead to health issues, such as:

  • Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies
  • Weakened immune system
  • Osteoporosis
  • Decreased muscle strength
  • Fertility issues
  • Growth and development issues in children

Limitations of BMI

While BMI is a useful screening tool, it has limitations:

  • It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat
  • It may not accurately reflect health status for athletes
  • It doesn't account for body fat distribution
  • Age, sex, and ethnicity can affect the relationship between BMI and body fat

BMI Formula

The BMI formula is: BMI = weight (kg) / height² (m²)

For pounds and inches: BMI = (weight in pounds / height in inches²) × 703

BMI Prime

BMI Prime is the ratio of a person's BMI to the upper limit of "normal" BMI (25 kg/m²). A BMI Prime of 1.0 means the person has a BMI of exactly 25. Values less than 1.0 indicate underweight or normal weight, while values greater than 1.0 indicate overweight.

Ponderal Index

The Ponderal Index (PI), also known as Corpulence Index, is similar to BMI but uses a different power of height: PI = weight (kg) / height³ (m³). It may be more appropriate for very tall or very short individuals.

🔒 Privacy Protection & User Reliability

Your privacy is our top priority. This BMI calculator operates entirely within your browser - no data is stored, transmitted, or shared with any servers. All calculations are performed locally on your device, ensuring complete privacy and data protection. We do not collect, store, or track any personal information, health data, or usage statistics. This tool is designed for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

User Guide

To use this BMI calculator effectively:

  1. Select your gender by clicking on the appropriate option
  2. Enter your age (2-120 years)
  3. Select your height in feet and inches
  4. Enter your weight in pounds
  5. Click "Calculate BMI" to see your results
  6. Review your BMI value, category, and health information

Remember that BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized health advice.