BMI Calculator, Track Fitness

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index(BMI) is value derived from person's weight and height. The result of BMI measurement can give an idea about weather a person has correct weight for their height.

How to Calculate BMI?

BMI calculation is based on simple formula using person's weight and height.

The formula for BMI = kg/m2 where kg is person's weight in kilograms and m2 is their height in meters squared. In simplified format it would be

BMI = (Weight in Kilograms)/(Height in meters * Height in meters)

For example if person's weight is 68kg and height is 172cm then

BMI = 68/(1.72*2) = 23

BMI calculator indicate whether person falls under healthy weight, underweight or overweight. If person's BMI is out of healthy range, their health risk may significantly increases.

BMI Range for adults

BMI : weight status

Below 18.5 : Underweight

18.5 – 24.9 : Normal or Healthy Weight

25.0 - 29.9 : Overweight

30.0 & above: Obese

Doctors uses BMI too for

- evalution for diet and physical acitivty

- cadiovascular disease and other health related problems

- measure fat in body

Health risks for extra weight

raises blood pressure and cholesterol and triglyceride levels

it can make diabetes and other health problems

hypertension or high blood pressure

type 2 diabetes

coronary heart disease

gallbladder disease

osteoarthritis

sleep apnea and respiratory problems

Health risks for under weight

malnutrition, anemia or vitamin deficiencies

osteoporosis from too little vitamin D and calcium

Decreased Immune System

fertility issues caused by irregular menstrual cycles

growth and development issues in children and teenagers

Who shouldn't use a BMI calculator

BMI should not be used for muscle builders, athletes, pregnant women, the elderly or young children.

This is because BMI does not take into account whether the weight is carried as muscle or fat it's just the number. Those with a higher muscle mass, such as athletes, may have a high BMI but not be at greater health risk. Those with a lower muscle mass, such as children who have not completed their growth or the elderly who may be losing some muscle mass may have a lower BMI.