How do you calculate BMI?

BMI is weight in pounds divided by height in inches squared, multiplied by 703. Example: 170 lb at 5 ft 9 in gives a BMI of about 25.1.

What is a healthy BMI?

For most adults, a BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 is considered the healthy weight range. BMI is only a screening tool and does not diagnose health.

Is BMI accurate for athletes?

BMI can be misleading for people with high muscle mass, pregnant people, older adults, or anyone whose body composition differs from the average.

BMI Calculator

Calculate body mass index from height and weight, with a simple category and healthy weight range.

Height Feet

Height Inches

Weight (lb)

Results

BMI25.1

CategoryOverweight

Healthy Weight Range125-169 lb

BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It does not account for muscle mass, pregnancy, age, or medical history.

How to Use This Calculator

The BMI calculator estimates body mass index from height and weight. BMI is a simple screening number used to compare weight relative to height, but it should not be treated as a complete health assessment.

Formula

BMI = weight in pounds / height in inches squared x 703.

Example

A person who is 5 ft 9 in and weighs 170 lb has a BMI of about 25.1, which falls near the border between healthy weight and overweight categories.

Common Tips

BMI does not measure body fat directly.
Athletes and people with higher muscle mass may have a high BMI without high body fat.
For personal health decisions, use BMI alongside medical advice and other measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related Guides

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Learn the BMI formula, see a simple example, and understand what BMI can and cannot tell you about health.

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