Calculate BMI (Your Body Mass Index)

To calculate BMI (Body Mass Index), you can use a very simple formula. The base measurements can either be in English measures feet, inches, and pounds, or metric in metres, centimetres, and kilograms.

English Formula To Calculate BMI

Body Mass Index can be calculated using pounds and inches with this equation

BMI = (

Weight in Pounds 
(Height in inches) x (Height in inches)

) x 703

For example, a person who weighs 160 pounds and is 5 feet 8 inches tall has a BMI of 24.3.

(

160 lbs. 
(68 inches) x (68 inches)

) x 703 = 24.3

Metric Formula To Calculate BMI

Body Mass Index can also be calculated using kilograms and metres (or centimetres).

BMI =

Weight in Kilograms 
(Height in Meters) x (Height in Meters)

or

BMI = (

Weight in Kilograms 
(Height in centimeters) x (Height in centimeters)

) x 10,000

For example, a person who weighs 72 Kilograms and is 1.74 (170.4 centimetres) tall has a BMI of 27.5.

72 Kg 
(1.74 m) x (1.74 m)

= 27.5

The BMI or Body Mass Index is just one of many factors that may affect your health and lead to chronic illness. However, it can be an important factor, and is more useful in measuring obesity than simply weight. It is therefore worthwhile to calculate BMI regularly to keep an eye on your Body Mass Index, and whether you need to lose weight.

If you are able to with your browser, you can use the BMI calculator below; it is free to do so. It is suggested you bookmark this page so you can come back and check as your weight changes.