BMI Calculator for Men
Men and women have different body compositions at the same BMI — men typically carry more lean mass and less subcutaneous fat, which can make BMI misleading for active men who lift weights. This calculator uses the standard BMI formula but provides male-specific interpretation: it highlights that BMI often overestimates body fatness in muscular men, includes waist circumference guidance (above 94 cm / 37 in indicates elevated risk), and notes that the optimal BMI range for men in terms of lowest all-cause mortality is approximately 22–25. If your BMI lands in the 'overweight' range but you train regularly and your waist is under 94 cm, body fat percentage is a better health indicator for you.
Your Details
Applies lower thresholds for overweight/obese per WHO Asia guidelines.
Example Use Cases
A 30-year-old man, 180 cm, 85 kg — BMI 26.2 (overweight), but if waist is 82 cm and he trains 4×/week, his actual body fat is likely in the healthy range.
A 45-year-old man, 175 cm, 95 kg — BMI 31.0 (obese class I) with a 102 cm waist indicates genuine excess visceral fat and elevated cardiovascular risk.
How to Interpret Your Results
For men who do regular resistance training, BMI frequently misclassifies them as overweight. If your BMI is 25–30, check your waist circumference and, ideally, body fat percentage before concluding you need to lose weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Methodology & Limitations
Formulas Used
**BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)²**. The formula was devised by Adolphe Quetelet in the 1830s and adopted by the WHO for population-level screening.
Page-Specific Notes
Same WHO BMI formula. Male-specific commentary references cohort studies on BMI, waist circumference, and all-cause mortality in men.
Limitations
BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass. Athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, and highly muscular individuals may receive misleading results. BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure.
Sources & Citations
- World Health Organization. Obesity and Overweight Fact Sheet. 2024.
- WHO Expert Consultation. Appropriate body-mass index for Asian populations. Lancet. 2004;363(9403):157-163.
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on published formulas and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or exercise routine.
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