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BMI Calculator
Understand your body weight and health risks
What is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
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 meters squared.
While BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, it provides a reasonable indicator of whether someone has too little or too much body weight for their height. It's a screening tool that can indicate potential weight problems for adults.
How to Calculate BMI?
The BMI formula is: BMI = weight(kg) / height(m)²
For imperial units: BMI = 703 × weight(lb) / height(in)²
Calculate Your BMI
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
Understanding BMI Categories
Underweight
BMI < 18.5
May indicate malnutrition or other health problems
Normal Weight
BMI 18.5-24.9
Generally indicates good health
Overweight
BMI 25-29.9
Increased risk of health problems
Obese
BMI ≥ 30
High risk of developing health issues
Important Considerations
- BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat
- Athletes may have a high BMI due to muscle mass, not excess fat
- BMI may not be accurate for elderly people who have lost muscle mass
- Different ethnic groups may have different associations between BMI and health risks
- BMI doesn't account for where fat is stored (abdominal fat carries higher health risks)
Common BMI Questions Answered
What is the BMI for 75 kg?
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
Is 70kg overweight?
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
Is 67 kg heavy for a girl?
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
Is 75 kg heavy for a woman?
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
How much should a 5'2" female weigh?
BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your weight category and potential health risks.
Why is my BMI 27 but I don't look fat?
BMI is a general screening tool and doesn't account for body composition. You might have more muscle mass, which weighs more than fat. Athletes and people who exercise regularly often have higher BMIs despite having healthy body fat percentages.
Other factors include:
- Body fat distribution (where you carry your weight)
- Bone density and frame size
- Genetic factors that influence body shape
What is the correct BMI for my age?
BMI categories are generally the same for adults of all ages, but interpretation may vary:
| Age Group | BMI Considerations |
|---|---|
| 19-24 years | 21-23 is often considered ideal |
| 25-34 years | 22-24 is often considered ideal |
| 35-44 years | 23-25 is often considered ideal |
| 45-54 years | 24-26 is often considered ideal |
| 55-64 years | 25-27 is often considered ideal |
| 65+ years | 26-28 is often considered ideal |
Note: These are general guidelines. Individual health factors should be considered alongside BMI.
Which BMI is safe?
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered the safest range for most adults, associated with the lowest risk of weight-related health problems. However, "safe" can vary based on individual factors:
- For some Asian populations, lower BMI cutoffs may be more appropriate
- Older adults may benefit from a slightly higher BMI (23-28)
- Pregnant women have different BMI considerations
Always consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice.
Beyond BMI: Other Important Health Metrics
How to check body fat?
While BMI estimates general weight status, measuring body fat percentage provides more detailed information about body composition.
Methods to measure body fat:
- Skinfold calipers: Pinch tests at specific body sites
- Bioelectrical impedance: Found in many modern scales
- DEXA scan: Most accurate method (medical procedure)
- Navy method: Uses waist, neck, and height measurements
For a simple at-home method, measure your waist circumference. A waist measurement greater than 35 inches (88 cm) for women or 40 inches (102 cm) for men indicates excess abdominal fat, regardless of BMI.
What is a good waist size?
Waist circumference is an important indicator of abdominal fat, which is linked to higher health risks than fat stored elsewhere.
| Gender | Low Risk | Moderate Risk | High Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women | < 31.5 inches (80 cm) | 31.5-35 inches (80-88 cm) | > 35 inches (88 cm) |
| Men | < 37 inches (94 cm) | 37-40 inches (94-102 cm) | > 40 inches (102 cm) |
Measure your waist at the level of your navel while standing relaxed, not sucking in your stomach.
Healthy Weight Management
How to lose belly weight?
Spot reduction (losing fat from a specific area) isn't possible, but these strategies can help reduce overall body fat, including belly fat:
Nutrition:
- Create a moderate calorie deficit
- Increase protein intake (helps preserve muscle)
- Reduce refined carbs and added sugars
- Eat more fiber-rich foods
- Stay hydrated
Exercise:
- Combine cardio and strength training
- Include high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Core-strengthening exercises
- Aim for 150+ minutes of activity weekly
For sustainable results, aim for gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds (0.5-1 kg) per week through lifestyle changes rather than extreme diets.
How to lose weight fast?
⚠️ Important Health Warning
Rapid weight loss is rarely sustainable and may be harmful. Most very fast weight loss is water weight and muscle, not fat.
For healthy, sustainable weight loss:
- Set realistic goals (1-2 pounds/week)
- Focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods
- Track your food intake with our Daily Nutrition Tracker
- Increase physical activity gradually
- Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
- Manage stress levels
- Stay consistent with healthy habits
For personalized weight management advice, consult with healthcare professionals.
Track Your Nutrition for Better Health
Understanding your BMI is just the first step. To improve your health metrics, you need to monitor your daily nutrition intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good pulse rate?
A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Athletes and very fit individuals might have lower resting heart rates, sometimes as low as 40 beats per minute.
What is my correct weight?
Your "correct" weight depends on many factors including height, age, gender, body composition, and overall health. While BMI provides a general range, consult with healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.
Can BMI be misleading?
Yes, BMI has limitations. It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. It may misclassify athletes as overweight or miss metabolic issues in people with "normal" BMI but unhealthy body composition.