What is a BMI Calculator?

Think a person is healthy if they are thin? Or that an overweight person is unhealthy?

When we think of health, we only consider one’s weight. However, a healthy weight is defined by the right weight to height ratio. This is known as Body Mass Index (BMI) and it is a numerical value that assesses whether a person has a healthy body weight in relation to their height.

Body Mass Index does not directly measure body fat. However, it is a useful tool to identify potential health risks associated with being overweight or underweight.

A BMI calculator allows you to quickly calculate your BMI based on your weight and height.

The BMI calculator uses a BMI formula which calculates the value by dividing your weight by the square of your height. The resulting figure indicates whether you are normal weight, underweight, overweight or obese.

The BMI calculator result is fairly reliable, but it is always advisable to consult a medical professional to get a comprehensive evaluation of your health.

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How to Calculate Your BMI

You can do a quick BMI check to see whether you need to lose, gain or maintain your weight.

Step 1

Simply enter your exact height and weight and the BMI calculator applies the BMI formula to calculate your Body Mass Index.

Step 2

The resulting numerical value will slot you in one of the BMI categories: underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obesity.

How do Retirement Calculators work?

What is the formula to Calculate Body Mass Index

BMI calculator follows a simple formula, which can be used for both, men and women. You need to know your weight in kilograms and your height in metres. If you know what your height is in centimetres, you can simply divide that number by 100.

BMI formula: Weight (kg) ÷ (Height in (m))2

International System of Units (SI)

BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ (Height in (m))2

Imperial System

BMI = Weight (lb) ÷ (Height (inches)) 2 * 703

BMI Chart

You can assess your Body Mass Index by referring to the below chart. This is a good reference as it can help you take the appropriate steps – such as lifestyle changes or medical intervention - to regain your health.

BMI	Below 18.5 kg	18.5 - 24.9 kg	25 - 29.9 kg	30 - 35 kg	over 35 kg
Weight Status	Underweight	Normal Weight	Overweight	Obese	Morbid obesity

Health Problems Associated with being

Overweight
Underweight

Type 2 diabetes
Certain types of cancer
High triglycerides
Stroke
High blood pressure
Gall bladder-related complications
Insulin resistance
Osteoarthritis or breakdown of joint cartilage leading to painful joints
Sleep apnea or intermittent breathing obstruction during sleep
Atherosclerosis or building up of cholesterol deposits (plaques) in blood vessels (arteries)
Skin health problems like skin tags, darkening of the skin
Breathing trouble
Hernia
Varicose veins
Cataract
Gout
Stress incontinence or frequent urination
Increasing chances of coronary artery diseases and heart attacks
Clinical depression and other mental health issues
Poly-cystic ovarian disease in women leading to reduced fertility and other menstrual irregularities

Vitamin deficiencies
Anaemia (low red blood cell count and hence reduced capacity to carry oxygen)
Diminished immunity
Osteoporosis
Malnutrition
Anorexia
Hormonal imbalances
Disruptions in women's menstrual cycle causing complications in conception

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does BMI change with age?

Answer: BMI can change with age as our body composition constantly changes with respect to fat loss or gain, muscle mass and other factors.

What are the factors affecting BMI?

Answer: Age, lifestyle, physical activity, diet, medical history, and family genes are some factors that affect BMI.

What is good body fat percentage?

Answer: Body fat is affected by various factors. However, the average normal range is 18-24% for men and 25-31% for women.

What is the benefit of using body mass index calculator?

Answer: A BMI calculator is a good indicator of health and a screening tool to identify individuals who may be at increased risk of developing certain health conditions associated with weight.

What is the BMI formula in kg?

Answer: The BMI formula is the same whether you weigh yourself in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).

Why is BMI important?

Answer: Body Mass Index is important as it is a good indicator of health and can forewarn you of any potential health risks, if you are not in the healthy weight range.