BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a simple calculation used to assess whether an individual's weight is in a healthy range relative to their height. It is widely used as a quick screening tool to categorize weight into categories like underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
BMI is calculated using a person's weight and height. The formula varies based on the unit system:
Use the BMI calculator above to quickly determine your BMI in either metric or imperial units.
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | Less than 18.5 |
| Normal Weight | 18.5 – 24.9 |
| Overweight | 25.0 – 29.9 |
| Obesity (Class 1) | 30.0 – 34.9 |
| Obesity (Class 2) | 35.0 – 39.9 |
| Extreme Obesity | 40.0 and above |
BMI is a quick and widely-used tool for identifying potential health risks. For example:
While BMI is helpful, it is not a comprehensive measure of health. It does not:
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in individuals with high muscle mass since muscle weighs more than fat.
A: Yes, but the calculation differs, and percentile ranges are used instead of fixed categories.
A: It's good to check periodically, especially if you're making lifestyle changes or have health goals.