BMI Calculator for Men

How to Calculate BMI for Men?

The BMI formula for men is the same as for women since BMI is a non-gender-specific metric used universally to assess weight-related health risks. To calculate BMI for men, divide the weight of a person in kgs by their squared height in metres. Now, compare this with the BMI chart for adults. You will get your weight category. The BMI formula is:

BMI = weight (kg)/ height (m2)

Here kg is a person’s weight in kilograms and m2 is their height in metres squared. This is the metric system BMI formula that uses kilograms (kgs) and metres as measurement units.

If you are using the imperial system (or US units), i.e., pounds and inches for your BMI calculation, the BMI calculation is done as follows:

BMI = [weight (lbs)/ height (inches)²] × 703

Let us understand it with an example. Say we want to find the BMI of a 5ft 7in, 70 kg man. We will first need to change the units to match the system we are using to apply the BMI formula.

Using the BMI metric system: We need height in meters. 5'7" equals 1.73 meters. Hence, applying the BMI formula, we get: BMI = 70/(1.73)²= 23.4

Using the BMI imperial system: We need the weight in pounds (lbs). 70 kgs is equivalent to 154.3 lbs, and 5’7” is equal to 68 inches. Hence, the BMI formula is as follows: BMI= [154.3/(68)²] x 703= 23.45

Hence, whichever BMI system you use for the calculator, the answer will be approximately the same. You can also use the BMI calculator for men to avoid confusion and manual work.

Is Using a BMI Calculator for Men Helpful?

The BMI calculator for men lets you simplify the calculation and get quick results. You just need to enter your height and weight, and it will instantly show the BMI result as to which category you fall into.

Using the BMI calculator helps you determine if you are already in the normal weight category or if you need to make changes to your lifestyle to achieve a normal weight range. Ensure that you use an accurate BMI calculator to avoid obtaining faulty results.

BMI Chart for Men

Now that you know how to calculate BMI for men, it is also important to understand how to interpret the value. Here is how a man can be classified into different weight categories per the WHO’s BMI values:

Weight Class

BMI Range

Underweight

BMI less than 18

Normal Weight

BMI between 18.5 to 24.9

Overweight

BMI between 25 to 29.9

Class 1 Obese

BMI between 30 to 34.9

Class 2 Obese

BMI between 35 to 39.9

Class 3 Obese

BMI over 40

The normal BMI range for men is 18.5 to 24.9. If your medical BMI calculator shows a BMI below 18.5 or above 24.9, it can be an indication that you require corrective health measures. While this is the universal BMI matrix, it is to be noted that the ideal BMI for men by age and height can differ.

How Does BMI Impact a Man’s Health?

BMI directly affects a man’s health, as neither a high nor a low BMI are considered good. It can be a marker to detect early signs of serious health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, etc. A healthy male BMI indicates reduced health risks.

Although BMI is an important factor in assessing health-related risks, you must remember that it also has limitations. It does not take into consideration different types of fats or the body fat distribution. Similarly, even if the healthy BMI range by age and gender is universal, it may not accurately reflect the ideal BMI for women or how it should vary with age. Hence, if you are using the BMI calculator for men in India, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with other health assessments for a comprehensive analysis.

Despite its limitations, why does BMI matter? BMI remains important for long-term male health because keeping a track of its value helps monitor weight gain or loss over time. This allows them to make lifestyle changes and take necessary medical examinations at an early stage. It is also helpful to get personalized doctor recommendations or nutritional advice.

What Does High BMI Indicate in Men?

Men who are overweight or obese can face the following health risks due to high BMI:

Cardiovascular problems

Chronic diseases like high BP, diabetes

Osteoarthritis

Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides)

Sleep apnea

Insulin resistance

Varicose veins

Increased risk of cancers or organ failure

What Does Low BMI Indicate in Men?

Underweight men can face various health problems due to low BMI. These are as follows:

Weakened immune system

Nutrient deficiencies

Anaemia

Osteoporosis

Skin, hair and dental issues

Digestive diseases

Poor reproductive health

How to Maintain a Healthy BMI for Men?

Here is how to achieve a healthy body weight for males:

Eat a balanced diet. Choose whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Reduce processed foods and sugary drinks.

Add healthy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, yogurts, etc., to your diet.

Try to exercise for at least 150 minutes a week. Maintain a regular fitness regime.

Be mindful while eating. Maintain your portion size. Eat less, but more frequently.

Ensure you are getting enough, good quality sleep.

Add healthy activities like meditation and breathing exercises to your daily routine.

Do not fall for instant weight loss plans.

Does BMI for Men in India Work Differently?

The BMI calculator for men in India works the same manner as it does across the globe. However, the BMI chart for Indian men may differ from universal values. This is because some research studies suggest that South Asian men usually have a higher body fat percentage. The standard BMI matrix was developed per the Western population and may not be applicable to all ethnicities, particularly South Asians.

Moreover, South Asian people are also more prone to genetic predisposition for chronic illnesses like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This implies that the ideal BMI for Indian male health should be at a lower cut-off than the usual. Hence, a normal BMI for an Indian man may not necessarily mean that he is completely healthy. It must be studied along with other parameters, such as waist-to-hip ratio, body fat percentage, blood markers, skinfold callipers, etc., to obtain a clear and full picture.

FAQs

Q. What is a good BMI for a male?

Ans: The ideal BMI for a man ranges from 18.5 to 24.9.
Q. What is the BMI of 70 kg and 170 cm?

Ans: The BMI for a 70 kg man of height 170 cm (1.7 m) is 24.2. A 70 kg man should be between the height of 173 cm (1.73 m) and 188 cm (1.88 m) to be classified into the normal weight category (18.5-24.9).
Q. What is the BMI of a 68 kg male?

Ans: The BMI of a 68 kg male depends on their height. The optimal healthy male BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. Hence, a 68 kg man will be in the normal BMI range if his height is approximately between 1.65 and 1.78 meters. You can use the BMI calculator for men (in kgs) for instant and accurate calculations.
Q. Can you lower your BMI by drinking more water?

Ans: Drinking more water can indirectly aid the process of lowering BMI as it temporarily gives the feeling of fullness, suppresses appetite and reduces calorie intake. However, this is a temporary effect and needs to be combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle to achieve actual, long-lasting results.
Q. Does muscle mass affect BMI?

Ans: Muscle mass and fat distribution do affect the weight of a person. However, BMI calculation does not take these into consideration. If you want to determine muscle mass, the body fat percentage can be a better assessment parameter than the BMI.

FAQs

Q. What is a good BMI for a male?

Q. What is the BMI of 70 kg and 170 cm?

Q. What is the BMI of a 68 kg male?

Q. Can you lower your BMI by drinking more water?

Q. Does muscle mass affect BMI?