To calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), you use a formula that relates your weight to your height.
BMI Calculation Formulas
Using Metric Units:
BMI=weight in kilograms (kg)(height in meters (m))2\text{BMI}=\frac{\text{weight in kilograms (kg)}}{(\text{height in meters (m)})^2}BMI=(height in meters (m))2weight in kilograms (kg)
For example, if you weigh 70 kg and are 1.70 m tall:
BMI=701.70×1.70=702.89≈24.22\text{BMI}=\frac{70}{1.70\times 1.70}=\frac{70}{2.89}\approx 24.22BMI=1.70×1.7070=2.8970≈24.22
Using Pounds and Inches (US customary units):
BMI=weight in pounds×703(height in inches)2\text{BMI}=\frac{\text{weight in pounds}\times 703}{(\text{height in inches})^2}BMI=(height in inches)2weight in pounds×703
For example, if you weigh 160 pounds and are 5 feet 6 inches tall (66 inches):
BMI=160×70366×66=112,4804,356≈25.8\text{BMI}=\frac{160\times 703}{66\times 66}=\frac{112,480}{4,356}\approx 25.8BMI=66×66160×703=4,356112,480≈25.8
Interpretation of BMI Values for Adults
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
- Obesity: BMI 30 or higher
BMI is a screening tool to broadly categorize weight status and potential health risks but does not directly measure body fat or distinguish between muscle and fat
Notes
- For children and teens, BMI is interpreted differently, based on age and sex percentiles.
- BMI has limitations and should be considered alongside other health factors
You can also use online BMI calculators provided by trusted health organizations to compute your BMI quickly and accurately
. In summary, BMI is calculated by dividing your weight by the square of your height, using either metric or imperial units with the appropriate formula.
