BMI Calculator

Use the below interactive BMI calculator, also known as the body mass index calculator, to find out what weight status you fall into. Based on the results of the calculator, your weight loss status will either be underweight, normal, overweight or obese.

Body Mass Index Calculator

BMI is used as a screening tool to identify potential health risks related to weight concerns.

The body mass index calculation uses a person's weight and height and will show results into one of four categories.

In addition to this free online BMI Calculator, check out the BMR calculator as well.

Body Mass Index Definition

In order to understand the results of the BMI calculator you need to understand BMI. The definition of Body Mass Index is a number from the results of a calculation using a person’s weight and height.

The results of the BMI formula are used as a tool to screen a person for potential weight problems due to body fat.

Excess weight and body fat could put a person at risk for certain diseases such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes just to name a few.

The BMI calculator results will fall into one of four weight status categories; underweight, normal, overweight and obese.

This status is used as an indicator of body fat. Although the Body Mass Index calculator does not measure the percentage of body fat, research has shown that the BMI results have a direct correlation to body fat percent.

The BMI calculator results will only show potential excess body fat and weight problems. Additional tests and evaluations would also have to be performed to be certain.

Based on the results of your doctor may run additional tests such as a skin fold test to help measure the percentage of body fat. Additionally, your doctor may evaluate your diet, family history and activity levels as well to measure your risk of weight related diseases.

If you want just a quick and fairly close approximation of body fat, use this body fat calculator.

Knowing the BMI Formula

BMI is calculated the same for adults and children. The results for adults however are not gender specific whereas the results for children and teens is age and gender specific.

For children and teens, the calculation is the same as below, but the results are interpreted using the age and gender percentiles. For more on children and teens body mass index, visit cdc.gov for their BMI calculator.

BMI Calculation

Measurement	Formula
Pounds and inces	weight (lb) / [height (in)]² x 703 Example: Weight = 175 lbs Height = 5' 6" (66 inches) Calculation = 175 / (66)² x 703 = 28.24
Kilograms & Meters (or centimeters)	Weight (kg) / height (m)² Note: Since height is generally measured in centimeters, divide height in cm by 100 to get the measurement in meters Example weight = 80 kg height = 168 cm (1.68 m) Calculation = 80 / (1.68)² = 28.34

The results of the above calculation would fall into the overweight status category. Below shows the BMI and weight status based on the results of the calculator.

BMI	Weight Status
Below 18.5	Underweight
18.5 - 24.9	Normal
25.0 - 29.9	Overweight
30.0 and above	Obese

What Steps Should You Take

If you find yourself within the normal range of the BMI results but still feel you want to lose or tone, then focus first on exercising and eating healthier. Don't try to cut calories to lose weight but instead focus on losing inches and toning muscles.

However if your results are in the overweight or obese category then first check with your doctor to see if additional tests should be run.

Also you will want to create a weight loss plan to lose weight and body fat. Your plan should include eating healthy and exercising.

Be sure to read these quick weight loss tips and exercise motivation tips to get you started on your weight loss program.