Check Your Body Mass Index (BMI)
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple formula that compares your weight to your height. It provides a rough estimate of whether you are underweight, at a normal weight, overweight, or obese. While not a perfect measure, BMI is widely used by health professionals and organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
- Obese: BMI 30 or higher
Limitations of BMI
Although BMI is a useful screening tool, it does not account for muscle mass, body composition, or distribution of fat. Athletes and very muscular individuals may have a high BMI but low body fat. Similarly, older adults may have normal BMI but higher fat percentages.
Why Use a BMI Calculator?
A BMI calculator helps you quickly estimate where you fall in the BMI scale. This can guide you in discussions with your doctor or fitness trainer. It is commonly used for personal health tracking, diet planning, and public health statistics.
Disclaimer
This calculator is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a diagnostic tool. Always consult a qualified medical professional for personalized health advice.