⚖️ BMI Calculator

See your ideal body weight for your height with the Ideal Weight Calculator.

Ideal body weight varies by sex because men typically have greater muscle mass and bone density. The healthy weight range below is calculated from a BMI of 18.5–24.9 and applies to all adults; the ideal weight columns use the Hamwi formula, a common clinical reference. These are screening references, not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional.

1. Select your preferred measurement system — metric (kilograms and centimeters) or imperial (pounds and feet/inches).
2. Enter your height in the corresponding field.
3. Enter your current body weight.
4. Optionally, enter your age and select your biological sex, which can add context for interpretation.
5. Click the Calculate button. The tool instantly displays your BMI value, the category it falls into, and your healthy weight range for your height. Use the reference table below to understand where your result sits and what actions, if any, you might discuss with a healthcare professional.

Is BMI accurate for everyone?

No single number can capture the full picture of health. BMI is a reliable screening tool for most adults, but it does not distinguish between fat mass and muscle mass. It also tends to overestimate body fat in some populations and underestimate it in others, so it should be interpreted alongside waist circumference, activity level, and overall health markers.

Does BMI work for athletes and people with high muscle mass?

For athletes and very muscular individuals, BMI frequently classifies them as overweight or obese even when their body fat percentage is low. This happens because muscle is denser than fat. In these cases, body fat percentage or waist-to-hip ratio may offer a clearer view of metabolic health.

Is BMI suitable for children and teens?

Children and adolescents are assessed using BMI-for-age percentile charts rather than fixed adult thresholds, because body composition changes with growth. A pediatrician should interpret results for anyone under 20, not the standard adult categories shown here.

Should pregnant women use BMI?

BMI is still relevant before pregnancy, but weight gain recommendations during pregnancy depend on pre-pregnancy BMI. Pregnant women should always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance rather than relying on standard adult BMI categories.

Is BMI different for men and women?

The BMI formula and the 18.5–24.9 healthy range are identical for men and women. What differs is ideal body weight, because men typically have greater muscle mass and bone density — see the ideal weight table above for sex-specific reference values.

What is a healthy BMI for my age?

For adults, BMI categories do not change with age: the 18.5–24.9 range applies to all adults. Children and teens are evaluated with BMI-for-age percentile charts instead, because their bodies are still growing.

What is the Asian BMI standard?

Some health organizations use lower BMI cutoffs for Asian populations, because body fat tends to accumulate at a lower BMI. Under the WHO Asia-Pacific guideline, overweight starts at 23 instead of 25, and obesity at 27 instead of 30. Check with your local health authority for the standard used in your region.

Is BMI accurate for seniors?

BMI becomes less reliable with age because muscle mass declines and fat distribution changes. An older adult may have a normal BMI while losing muscle, so seniors should interpret BMI together with muscle strength, mobility, and other health markers rather than relying on the number alone.

How do I calculate BMI in pounds and inches?

With imperial units, the formula is BMI = 703 × weight (lb) / height² (in²). For example, a person who is 5′10″ (70 in) and weighs 175 lb has a BMI of 703 × 175 / 70² ≈ 25.1.

How can I lower my BMI?

BMI drops when you create a sustained calorie deficit through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. Aim for gradual, sustainable changes — consistent movement, portion control, adequate sleep, and stress management — rather than crash diets. Consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes.