BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index by entering your height and weight.
Enter Body Information
Enter your height and weight
to calculate your BMI.
Other Calculators
What is BMI (Body Mass Index)?
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It was developed by Belgian statistician Adolphe Quetelet in 1832 and is now the most widely used indicator of obesity worldwide.
BMI Formula
BMI = Weight (kg) / Height (m)²
For example, if you are 170cm tall and weigh 65kg:
BMI = 65 / (1.70)² = 65 / 2.89 = 22.5
BMI Categories (WHO Standards)
| Category | BMI Range | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Below 18.5 | Risk of malnutrition, weakened immunity |
| Normal | 18.5 - 24.9 | Low health risk |
| Overweight | 25 - 29.9 | Increased risk |
| Obese Class I | 30 - 34.9 | High risk |
| Obese Class II | 35 - 39.9 | Very high risk |
| Obese Class III | 40 and above | Extremely high risk |
Limitations of BMI
- Muscle mass not considered: Athletes may have high BMI due to muscle
- Fat distribution ignored: Cannot distinguish abdominal (visceral) fat
- Age not factored: Health risks may vary at same BMI for different ages
- Gender differences: Women tend to have higher body fat at same BMI
FAQ
Q. Does high BMI always mean obesity?
Not necessarily. Athletes with high muscle mass may have elevated BMI while being perfectly healthy. For accurate assessment, body fat percentage measurement is recommended.
Q. What is the ideal BMI?
A BMI between 18.5-24.9 is considered normal. Studies suggest that mortality rates are lowest around BMI 22-23. However, individual factors like body composition and lifestyle should also be considered.
