What's a BMI?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. Everyone has a different BMI. To find out what yours is, all you need to know are your height and weight. You don't need to know the exact equation - just plug your numbers into this BMI calculator.Until you're around age 21, your age and gender need to be factored into your BMI to account for the different speeds at which guys and girls develop. Be sure to plug your correct age and gender into the BMI calculator so your results are accurate.
Your BMI doesn't tell you everything you need to know about your health, but it's a quick way to tell whether or not you might be underweight or overweight, and what health problems you might have or develop because of your weight.
How Can I Find My BMI?
If you're under the age of 21, use this BMI calculator to find out your body mass index.If you're 21 or over, then use this BMI calculator.
The difference between the two versions is that the non-adult one requires your age and gender so it can factor in how quickly other people like you tend to grow.
Is My BMI Normal?
Everyone's body type is a little different, but here's what's often true based on your body mass index:- If your BMI is below 18.5, you're underweight.
- If your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9, you're at a normal weight for your height.
- If your BMI is between 25.0 and 29.9, you're overweight.
- If your BMI is 30.0 or over, you're obese. Find out what "obese" is all about.
What's So Bad About Having a High BMI?
If your BMI is in the danger zone (25.0 and above), you could be at risk for developing a bunch of dangerous conditions, like:Is My BMI Too High?
If your BMI is above 25.0, you might want to think about dropping your weight down to a healthier level.- Here are some fun ways to get fit.
- Here are some tips for teens on how to lose weight.
- Here are some easy, healthy snacks you can make, if you want to swap out the junky stuff with something healthier.
Is My BMI Too Low?
If your BMI is below 18.5, you might want to consider putting on a little more weight in a healthy way.- Here's all you need to know about healthy ways to gain weight.
- Here's how to put on some muscle.
Is My BMI All I Need to Know?
Since your body mass index only factors in your height and weight, it's far from telling the whole story about your health. For starters, it doesn't measure your body fat, which is a much more accurate way to tell if you're overweight or obese.The BMI calculator is a good place to start - but if you're concerned about your weight, be sure to talk to your doctor, too.
