Check your BMI

Icy Health’s BMI calculator makes it easy for you to find how fit you are. Just enter your height and weight, and we will tell you what shape you are in! Scientifically tested, and proven.

BMI Calculator

BMI Calculator

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Our Guide to Measuring your BMI The Right Way

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical value derived from a person's weight and height. It is a widely used screening tool to categorize individuals into various weight categories that may lead to health problems. The formula for calculating BMI is: BMI=weight in kilograms(height in meters)2BMI=(height in meters)2weight in kilograms​

BMI Categories: BMI is categorized into several classes which can indicate potential health risks:

  • Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
  • Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
  • Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
  • Obesity (Class 1): BMI 30 to 34.9
  • Severe Obesity (Class 2): BMI 35 to 39.9
  • Morbid Obesity (Class 3): BMI 40 or higher

Healthy BMI Levels

1. Adults: For most adults, regardless of their sex, the healthy BMI range is considered to be from 18.5 to 24.9. It's important to note that while BMI provides a good baseline, it doesn't differentiate between muscle and fat mass, which can lead to inaccuracies, especially in muscular individuals.

2. Children and Teens: BMI for children and teens takes age and sex into account, often referred to as BMI-for-age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides growth charts that compare a child's BMI with others of the same age and sex. The percentile into which the child's BMI falls determines their weight category:

  • Underweight: Below the 5th percentile
  • Healthy weight: 5th percentile to less than the 85th percentile
  • Overweight: 85th to less than the 95th percentile
  • Obese: 95th percentile or higher

BMI According to Body Type

  • Ectomorphs: These individuals are typically lean and long. Since they have less body fat and muscle, their BMI might be naturally lower, yet still healthy.
  • Mesomorphs: Known for their muscular build and easy ability to gain muscle. They might have a higher BMI due to increased muscle mass, yet remain in excellent health.
  • Endomorphs: Characterized by a higher proportion of body fat compared to muscle mass, endomorphs might have a higher BMI that suggests overweight, even if their body fat percentage is within a healthy range.

Limitations of BMI

While BMI is a useful indicator of potential health risks associated with body weight, it has several limitations:

  • Does not account for muscle mass: Athletes and those with high muscle mass may have a BMI that classifies them as overweight or obese.
  • Does not distinguish fat distribution: BMI does not consider where body fat is distributed, which can affect health risks.
  • May not be suitable for all ethnic groups: There are different health risks associated with the same BMI in different ethnic populations.

Author

Icy Health Editorial Team