? FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert pounds to kilograms?
Multiply pounds by 0.45359237. For example, 100 lb equals 45.36 kg. Use the weight converter above when you need to switch units in either direction.
How do I convert feet and inches to centimeters?
Convert feet to inches, add the remaining inches, then multiply by 2.54. Five feet ten inches equals 177.8 cm. The height converter accepts feet and a separate inches value.
Which height and weight units does this tool support?
The BMI calculator accepts centimeters and kilograms, or feet, inches, and pounds. The separate converters also support meters, grams, ounces, and direct unit swapping.
What formula does the BMI calculator use?
BMI equals weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared: kg ÷ m². When you enter US units, this site converts them to metric units first and then applies the same formula.
Why does height have such a large effect on BMI?
Height is squared in the BMI formula. For the same body weight, a shorter height produces a higher BMI and a taller height produces a lower BMI, so enter your measurement as accurately as practical.
Is BMI a medical diagnosis?
No. BMI is a broad adult screening reference and does not diagnose health conditions. A clinician can consider medical history, symptoms, measurements, and other factors that BMI does not include.
Does BMI measure body fat or describe muscular people accurately?
No. It cannot separate muscle, fat, bone mass, or body composition. Athletes and people with unusually high or low muscle mass may find that BMI is less representative of their individual situation.
Can I use this calculator during pregnancy?
Standard adult BMI categories are not designed to assess pregnancy-related weight changes. For pregnancy-specific guidance, discuss measurements and weight goals with a qualified healthcare professional.
Can I use this calculator for children or teenagers?
This tool uses adult BMI reference categories. Children and teenagers require age- and sex-specific BMI-for-age assessments, so use an appropriate pediatric reference or seek professional guidance.
How accurate are the conversion and BMI results?
Unit conversions use standard fixed conversion factors, and BMI is rounded only after the calculation. The usefulness of the result still depends on accurate height and weight entries and on whether adult BMI is appropriate for the person being assessed.
Are my height and weight saved or sent anywhere?
No. Calculations run in your browser. This site does not send, store, or create an account from the height and weight values you enter.
How often should I check my BMI?
There is no single schedule that suits everyone. If you track BMI, measure under similar conditions and focus on changes over time alongside other health information rather than relying on one isolated number.