Free BMI Calculator

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a numerical value calculated from your weight and height to estimate body fat and screen for weight-related health risks. BMI = weight (kg) / height² (m). While it's a useful screening tool, it doesn't directly measure body fat or muscle mass.

For Asian and Indian populations, WHO recommends slightly adjusted BMI thresholds: Underweight < 18.5, Normal 18.5–22.9, Overweight 23–27.4, Obese ≥ 27.5. Indians and South Asians have higher metabolic risk at lower BMI values compared to Western populations.

Yes, BMI has limitations. Highly muscular people (athletes, bodybuilders) may have high BMI but low body fat. Elderly people may have normal BMI but high fat percentage due to muscle loss. BMI doesn't account for fat distribution — belly fat (visceral fat) is more dangerous than peripheral fat.

BMI reduces when you lose weight while maintaining height. Sustainable weight loss of 0.5–1 kg per week through a caloric deficit of 500–1000 calories/day is recommended. Combine cardio exercise (150 min/week) with strength training and a balanced, high-protein diet.

The BMI calculation formula is the same for men and women, but the interpretation slightly differs. Women generally have more body fat than men at the same BMI. The 18.5–24.9 'healthy' range applies to both, but doctors may interpret it differently based on gender, age, and ethnicity.