Body Mass Index

BMI Calculator

Enter your height and weight to find your BMI and healthy weight range.

Units
cm
kg

Your BMI

22.5

Normal weight

Healthy BMI18.5 – 24.9
Healthy weight for your height53.5 – 72.0 kg

BMI is a rough screening figure, not a diagnosis — it doesn't distinguish muscle from fat.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a quick screening tool that estimates whether your weight is healthy for your height. This free calculator instantly shows your BMI number, tells you if you're underweight, normal, overweight, or obese, and helps you understand what it means for your health.

What is the BMI Calculator?

BMI is a ratio of your weight in kilograms to your height in metres squared (kg/m²). It's a screening tool used by doctors and health professionals worldwide to assess whether someone's weight falls into a healthy range for their height. BMI doesn't measure body fat directly—athletes with muscle mass may score higher—but it's useful for spotting health risks at the population level.

How it works

The calculator divides your weight (in kg) by your height (in metres) squared. Enter your measurements in either metric (kg/m) or imperial (lbs/inches) units, and the tool instantly converts and computes your BMI, then categorises it into one of five standard ranges: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5–24.9), Overweight (25–29.9), Obese class I (30–34.9), and Obese class II (≥35).

BMI = weight (kg) ÷ [height (m)]²

Weight is your body mass in kilograms; height is your standing height in metres. Square the height first, then divide weight by that result. For imperial units (pounds and inches), multiply the result by 703 after dividing weight by height squared.

Examples

InputResultNotes
Weight: 70 kg, Height: 1.75 mBMI = 22.9 (Normal weight)Falls within the healthy range of 18.5–24.9; no weight-related health action needed.
Weight: 90 kg, Height: 1.70 mBMI = 31.0 (Obese class I)Exceeds 30; associated with increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and joint strain.
Weight: 55 kg, Height: 1.65 mBMI = 20.2 (Normal weight)Healthy range; generally lower risk for weight-related chronic diseases.

How to use the BMI Calculator

  1. Enter your weight in either kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs).
  2. Enter your height in either metres (m) or feet and inches.
  3. Select your preferred unit system (metric or imperial).
  4. Click 'Calculate' and the tool displays your BMI number.
  5. Read your BMI category (Underweight, Normal, Overweight, or Obese).
  6. Review the health guidance and consider consulting a doctor if your BMI is outside the normal range.

Benefits

  • Instant results—no need to remember the formula or use a calculator by hand.
  • Supports both metric and imperial units, so you can use what you know.
  • Shows you which health category you fall into and what risks may apply.
  • Free and private—no sign-up, no ads tracking you, no storage of your data.
  • Helps you set realistic health goals and track progress over time.
  • Useful screening tool to discuss with a doctor or nutritionist.

Tips & common mistakes

Common mistakes

  • Forgetting to square your height—the most common math error; the calculator does this for you.
  • Assuming BMI is a direct measure of body fat; it misses muscle mass, bone density, and age-related changes.
  • Ignoring that BMI categories are statistical, not medical diagnoses—always consult a professional for health decisions.
  • Using outdated height or weight data; measure yourself accurately and update regularly.

Tips

  • Measure your height without shoes, standing against a wall, and weigh yourself at the same time of day (morning after bathroom) for consistency.
  • If your BMI is high but you exercise regularly and feel healthy, discuss your individual situation with a doctor—BMI is a screening tool, not a verdict.
  • Combine BMI with other metrics like waist circumference, fitness level, and family history for a fuller picture of health.
  • Recalculate every few months if you're working on weight loss or gain to track progress and stay motivated.

Frequently asked questions

Is a BMI of 25 overweight?

Yes. BMI 25–29.9 is classified as overweight. Normal weight is 18.5–24.9. However, if you're muscular or athletic, your BMI may be naturally higher; consult a healthcare provider.

What's the ideal BMI?

The ideal range is 18.5–24.9 (normal weight). This range is associated with the lowest risk of weight-related diseases in the general population, though individual needs vary.

Can BMI be inaccurate?

Yes. BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, age, or ethnicity. Athletes and older adults may have a 'high' BMI despite good health. It's a screening tool, not a diagnosis.

How often should I check my BMI?

Check every 1–3 months if you're actively managing weight, or annually for general health tracking. More frequent checks aren't necessary and can cause unnecessary anxiety.

Does BMI work for children and teens?

BMI is calculated the same way, but interpretation differs. Children's BMI is age- and sex-specific; use a paediatrician's growth charts or a child-specific BMI tool for accuracy.

What should I do if my BMI is high?

Start with a healthcare provider—they'll assess your overall health, not just BMI. Combine modest calorie reduction, regular physical activity (150 min/week), and stress management; results typically take 8–12 weeks to show.

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FreeTools Editorial Team · Last reviewed July 2026

Reviewed for accuracy. Results are estimates for general information and are not professional (medical, financial or legal) advice.