Easily calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) using your height in centimeters and weight in kilograms. Understand what your BMI means for your health.
BMI Calculator
Enter your height in centimeters.
Enter your weight in kilograms.
Your BMI Results
—
BMI Category: —
Height in Meters: —
Weight per Square Meter: —
Formula Used: BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters (kg/m²).
Key Assumptions
1 metric unit of height = 1 cm
1 metric unit of weight = 1 kg
BMI Distribution Visualization
Visual representation of BMI categories based on typical ranges.
BMI Category Ranges
BMI Category
BMI Range (kg/m²)
Health Implications
Underweight
Below 18.5
Increased risk of nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, etc.
Normal weight
18.5 – 24.9
Lowest risk of weight-related health problems.
Overweight
25 – 29.9
Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes.
Obesity (Class I)
30 – 34.9
Significant risk of chronic diseases.
Obesity (Class II)
35 – 39.9
High risk of severe chronic diseases.
Obesity (Class III)
40 and above
Very high risk of serious health complications.
What is a BMI Calculator?
A **BMI calculator** is a simple, free online tool designed to estimate an individual's body fat based on their height and weight. It provides a numerical value known as the Body Mass Index (BMI). This index serves as a quick screening tool to categorize individuals into different weight categories, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. The **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg** version specifically uses these common metric units for ease of use by a global audience.
Who Should Use a BMI Calculator?
Virtually anyone can use a **BMI calculator**. It's particularly useful for:
Individuals wanting a general idea of their weight status relative to their height.
People embarking on weight management programs (weight loss or gain).
Health and fitness enthusiasts tracking their body composition.
Healthcare professionals using it as an initial assessment tool before further medical evaluation.
Parents and guardians monitoring children's growth and weight status (though specific pediatric BMI charts are used).
It's important to remember that a **BMI calculator** is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or body fat distribution, which are crucial factors in overall health.
Common Misconceptions about BMI
BMI is a perfect measure of health: False. A very muscular person can have a high BMI but be very healthy. Conversely, someone with a normal BMI might have poor health due to lifestyle factors.
BMI directly measures body fat percentage: False. It's a ratio of weight to height, an indirect estimate.
BMI is the same for everyone: False. While the calculation is universal, interpretation varies by age, sex, and ethnicity, and specific BMI charts are used for different populations.
BMI Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg** utilizes a straightforward formula derived from the standard BMI calculation. The core idea is to standardize weight relative to height.
The Formula
The fundamental formula for BMI is:
BMI = Weight (kg) / (Height (m))²
Since our calculator takes height in centimeters, a conversion step is necessary:
Convert height from centimeters to meters: Height (m) = Height (cm) / 100
Square the height in meters: (Height (m))²
Divide the weight in kilograms by the squared height in meters.
Variable Explanations
Let's break down the variables used in the **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg**:
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Height (cm)
The measurement of a person's vertical stature.
Centimeters (cm)
50 – 250 cm
Weight (kg)
The mass of a person's body.
Kilograms (kg)
1 – 500 kg
Height (m)
Height converted to meters for calculation.
Meters (m)
0.5 – 2.5 m
BMI
Body Mass Index, a measure of body fat relative to height.
kg/m²
10 – 60+ kg/m² (typical clinical ranges)
Weight per Square Meter
An intermediate value representing weight normalized per square meter of height.
kg/m²
Varies significantly with BMI
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let's illustrate how the **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg** works with practical examples:
Example 1: A Moderately Active Adult
Input:
Height: 175 cm
Weight: 70 kg
Calculation Steps:
Convert height to meters: 175 cm / 100 = 1.75 m
Square height in meters: 1.75 m * 1.75 m = 3.0625 m²
Calculate BMI: 70 kg / 3.0625 m² ≈ 22.86 kg/m²
Output:
Main Result (BMI): 22.86
BMI Category: Normal weight
Height in Meters: 1.75 m
Weight per Square Meter: 22.86 kg/m²
Interpretation: A BMI of 22.86 falls within the "Normal weight" range (18.5–24.9). This suggests the individual is within a healthy weight range for their height, indicating a lower risk of weight-related health issues compared to those in higher or lower categories.
Example 2: An Individual with Higher Weight
Input:
Height: 160 cm
Weight: 85 kg
Calculation Steps:
Convert height to meters: 160 cm / 100 = 1.60 m
Square height in meters: 1.60 m * 1.60 m = 2.56 m²
Calculate BMI: 85 kg / 2.56 m² ≈ 33.20 kg/m²
Output:
Main Result (BMI): 33.20
BMI Category: Obesity (Class I)
Height in Meters: 1.60 m
Weight per Square Meter: 33.20 kg/m²
Interpretation: A BMI of 33.20 falls into the "Obesity (Class I)" category (30–34.9). This indicates a significantly increased risk for developing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Further consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended to discuss weight management strategies and health risks.
How to Use This BMI Calculator
Using our **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg** is designed to be quick and intuitive. Follow these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Enter Height: In the "Height (cm)" field, input your height precisely in centimeters (e.g., if you are 5 feet 9 inches, that's approximately 175 cm).
Enter Weight: In the "Weight (kg)" field, input your weight accurately in kilograms (e.g., 70 kg).
Calculate: Click the "Calculate BMI" button.
How to Read Results
Main Result: The prominent number displayed is your calculated Body Mass Index (BMI) value, shown in kg/m².
BMI Category: This provides a classification based on your BMI value (Underweight, Normal weight, Overweight, or Obese categories).
Height in Meters: Shows your height converted for context.
Weight per Square Meter: An intermediate metric to understand the weight density relative to your height squared.
BMI Table: Refer to the table to understand the health implications associated with each BMI category.
Decision-Making Guidance
Your BMI result is a starting point for understanding your weight status. If your BMI falls outside the "Normal weight" range, it is advisable to:
Consult a Healthcare Professional: Discuss your results, health history, and lifestyle with a doctor or registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and help you create a safe and effective plan.
Focus on Healthy Habits: Regardless of your BMI, prioritize a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management.
Consider Body Composition: Remember that BMI is just one metric. Factors like muscle mass, body fat percentage, and waist circumference also provide valuable insights into health.
This calculator supports informed decision-making by providing clear, accessible health metrics. Explore our related tools for a comprehensive approach to financial and personal wellness.
Key Factors That Affect BMI Results
While the **BMI calculator height in cm and weight in kg** provides a standardized measurement, several factors influence an individual's BMI and its interpretation:
Muscle Mass vs. Fat Mass: Muscle is denser than fat. Individuals with significant muscle mass (e.g., athletes, bodybuilders) may have a high BMI despite having low body fat and being very healthy. This is a primary limitation of BMI.
Bone Density: People with naturally larger or denser bone structures may weigh more, potentially inflating their BMI.
Age: BMI interpretation can differ with age. For example, older adults might have a slightly higher BMI considered healthy due to maintaining muscle mass, while BMI charts for children and adolescents are age- and sex-specific.
Sex: Men and women tend to have different body compositions (e.g., men typically have more muscle mass and less body fat than women at the same weight and height), which can affect how BMI relates to health risks.
Ethnicity: Studies suggest that the relationship between BMI, body fat, and health risks can vary across different ethnic groups. For instance, individuals of Asian descent may experience increased health risks at lower BMI thresholds than those of European descent.
Body Fat Distribution: Where you store fat matters. Excess abdominal fat (often indicated by a high waist circumference) is linked to greater health risks than fat stored in the hips and thighs, a detail BMI doesn't capture.
Pregnancy: BMI calculations are not appropriate for pregnant individuals, as weight gain is expected and necessary during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the ideal BMI range?
The generally accepted ideal BMI range for adults is 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m². This range is associated with the lowest risk of various chronic diseases.
Can a BMI calculator be used for children?
Yes, but specific pediatric BMI-for-age growth charts are used, which take into account the child's age and sex, as BMI changes significantly during growth and development. This calculator is intended for adults.
Is a high BMI always bad?
Not necessarily. While a high BMI (overweight or obese) often correlates with increased health risks, it's not a definitive measure of health on its own. Factors like muscle mass, fitness level, and diet play a significant role.
Is a low BMI always good?
No. A low BMI (underweight) can indicate insufficient body fat and muscle mass, potentially leading to increased risks of osteoporosis, infertility, weakened immune function, and nutritional deficiencies.
How often should I check my BMI?
Checking your BMI periodically (e.g., every 6-12 months) can help you monitor changes. However, focus more on maintaining healthy lifestyle habits than on the specific number. Consistent monitoring is part of a responsible approach to personal health tracking.
Does BMI account for body fat percentage?
No, BMI does not directly measure body fat percentage. It's a ratio of weight to height squared. While it often correlates with body fat, it can be misleading for individuals with high muscle mass.
What's the difference between BMI and waist circumference?
BMI is a general indicator of weight status relative to height. Waist circumference measures abdominal fat, which is a strong predictor of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes risk, independent of BMI. Measuring both provides a more complete picture.
Can this calculator help with weight loss goals?
Yes, it can serve as a starting point. By calculating your current BMI, you can see where you stand and set a target BMI range. However, sustainable weight loss involves balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes, ideally guided by a healthcare professional. Use our calorie deficit calculator to complement your weight management efforts.
How accurate is a BMI calculator?
For the general adult population, BMI is a reasonably accurate predictor of body fatness. However, its accuracy decreases for individuals who are very muscular, elderly, or pregnant. It remains a valuable screening tool but should not be used as a sole diagnostic measure.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Health Savings Account (HSA) Guide: Learn how to leverage HSAs for eligible medical expenses, potentially covering consultations related to weight management or health assessments.
Understanding Your Credit Score: While seemingly unrelated, financial health often influences lifestyle choices. A good credit score can provide access to resources for health and wellness.
Budgeting Basics for Families: Effective budgeting can free up resources for healthier food choices and fitness activities, contributing to overall well-being.
Mortgage Affordability Calculator: Financial planning is key to reducing stress, which can impact health. Understanding your mortgage capacity helps secure financial stability.
Beginner's Guide to Investing: Long-term financial security can alleviate stress, indirectly supporting health goals.
var heightCmInput = document.getElementById('heightCm');
var weightKgInput = document.getElementById('weightKg');
var heightCmError = document.getElementById('heightCmError');
var weightKgError = document.getElementById('weightKgError');
var mainResult = document.getElementById('mainResult');
var bmiCategory = document.getElementById('bmiCategory').querySelector('span');
var heightM = document.getElementById('heightM').querySelector('span');
var weightPerM2 = document.getElementById('weightPerM2').querySelector('span');
var bmiChartCanvas = document.getElementById('bmiChart').getContext('2d');
var bmiChartInstance = null;
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function calculateBMI() {
var heightCm = heightCmInput.value;
var weightKg = weightKgInput.value;
var isValidHeight = validateInput(heightCm, heightCmError, 50, 250, 'Height');
var isValidWeight = validateInput(weightKg, weightKgError, 1, 500, 'Weight');
if (!isValidHeight || !isValidWeight) {
resetResults();
return;
}
var hCm = parseFloat(heightCm);
var wKg = parseFloat(weightKg);
var heightMeters = hCm / 100;
var bmi = wKg / (heightMeters * heightMeters);
var weightPerSquareMeter = bmi; // This is essentially the BMI value itself
var bmiRounded = bmi.toFixed(2);
var category = getBMICategory(bmi);
mainResult.textContent = bmiRounded;
bmiCategory.textContent = category;
heightM.textContent = heightMeters.toFixed(2) + ' m';
weightPerM2.textContent = weightPerSquareMeter.toFixed(2) + ' kg/m²';
updateChart(bmi);
}
function getBMICategory(bmi) {
if (bmi = 18.5 && bmi = 25 && bmi = 30 && bmi = 35 && bmi = 40) return 'Obesity (Class III)';
return '–';
}
function resetResults() {
mainResult.textContent = '–';
bmiCategory.textContent = '–';
heightM.textContent = '–';
weightPerM2.textContent = '–';
if (bmiChartInstance) {
bmiChartInstance.data.datasets[0].data = [0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0];
bmiChartInstance.update();
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function resetCalculator() {
heightCmInput.value = '175';
weightKgInput.value = '70';
heightCmError.textContent = ";
heightCmError.classList.remove('visible');
weightKgError.textContent = ";
weightKgError.classList.remove('visible');
calculateBMI();
}
function copyResults() {
var resultText = "BMI Calculator Results:\n";
resultText += "——————–\n";
resultText += "BMI: " + mainResult.textContent + "\n";
resultText += "Category: " + bmiCategory.textContent + "\n";
resultText += "Height: " + heightM.textContent + "\n";
resultText += "Weight per Square Meter: " + weightPerM2.textContent + "\n";
resultText += "\nKey Assumptions:\n";
resultText += "1 metric unit of height = 1 cm\n";
resultText += "1 metric unit of weight = 1 kg\n";
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textArea.value = resultText;
document.body.appendChild(textArea);
textArea.select();
try {
document.execCommand('copy');
alert('Results copied to clipboard!');
} catch (err) {
console.error('Unable to copy results.', err);
alert('Failed to copy results. Please copy manually.');
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function updateChart(currentBmi) {
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{ name: 'Normal weight', range: [18.5, 24.9], value: 0 },
{ name: 'Overweight', range: [25, 29.9], value: 0 },
{ name: 'Obesity (Class I)', range: [30, 34.9], value: 0 },
{ name: 'Obesity (Class II)', range: [35, 39.9], value: 0 },
{ name: 'Obesity (Class III)', range: [40, Infinity], value: 0 }
];
var categoryIndex = -1;
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data[i].value = currentBmi;
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break;
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// Ensure category data is reset for other categories if not the current one
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datasets: [
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backgroundColor: [
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'rgba(75, 192, 192, 0.6)', // Normal weight (Green)
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'rgba(255, 159, 64, 0.6)', // Obesity Class I (Orange)
'rgba(201, 203, 207, 0.6)', // Obesity Class II (Grey)
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if (bmiChartInstance) {
bmiChartInstance.data = chartData;
bmiChartInstance.update();
} else {
bmiChartInstance = new Chart(bmiChartCanvas, {
type: 'bar',
data: chartData,
options: {
responsive: true,
maintainAspectRatio: false,
scales: {
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title: {
display: true,
text: 'BMI (kg/m²)'
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plugins: {
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