BMI Calculator for Teenagers

Calculate your BMI with teen-specific interpretation. Growing bodies need different assessment - learn what's healthy during adolescence.

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Complete Guide: BMI Calculator for Teenagers

Calculate your BMI with teen-specific interpretation. Growing bodies need different assessment - learn what's healthy during adolescence. Our specialized calculator provides tailored insights for your specific situation.

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Why Teen BMI Is Calculated Differently

Teenagers' bodies are still growing and developing. Adult BMI categories don't apply to teens - instead, we use age and gender-specific percentiles to determine healthy weight ranges.

  • 1Teen BMI is interpreted using percentiles, not fixed numbers
  • 2Healthy BMI increases with age as teens grow
  • 3Boys and girls have different healthy ranges at the same age
  • 4Puberty timing affects body composition significantly
  • 5Growth spurts can temporarily shift BMI percentile

Understanding Teen BMI Percentiles

For teenagers, BMI is plotted on growth charts. Your percentile shows how you compare to other teens of the same age and gender.

ObeseBMI 95th+

Weight significantly above peers

Focus on healthy habits, not restrictive dieting. See a healthcare provider.

OverweightBMI 85th-94th

Weight above most peers

Maintain weight while growing taller. Increase activity, improve food quality.

Healthy WeightBMI 5th-84th

Normal range for teens

Continue balanced eating and regular physical activity.

UnderweightBMI Below 5th

Weight below most peers

Ensure adequate nutrition for growth. May need medical evaluation.

Expert Tips for Teenagers

  • ✓Don't compare your BMI to adult standards - teen bodies are still developing
  • ✓Your BMI percentile naturally shifts during puberty - this is normal
  • ✓Focus on eating enough nutritious food to fuel growth, not restriction
  • ✓Stay active with activities you enjoy - sports, dance, walking, anything counts
  • ✓Never skip meals to lower BMI - this can impair growth and development
  • ✓Talk to a doctor or school nurse if you're concerned about your weight

BMI Calculator for Different Goals

for Weight Loss

Optimized for those on a weight loss journey

for Women

Calibrated for female physiology

for Men

Calibrated for male physiology

for Athletes

Adjusted for athletic body composition

for Bodybuilders

Accounts for high muscle mass

for Seniors

Age-adjusted for adults 60+

View main BMI Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

How is teen BMI different from adult BMI?

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The formula is the same, but teen BMI is interpreted using percentiles on growth charts. A BMI of 23 might be healthy for a 17-year-old but overweight for a 13-year-old.

What's a healthy BMI percentile for teens?

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The 5th to 84th percentile is considered healthy weight. This is a wide range because healthy teens come in many shapes and sizes.

Should teenage athletes worry about BMI?

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Athletic teens often have higher BMI due to muscle mass, which is healthy. Focus on performance, energy levels, and overall health rather than BMI.

Will my BMI change during puberty?

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Yes, it's normal for BMI to increase during puberty as your body develops. Girls typically experience this earlier than boys.

Is it safe for teens to diet to lower BMI?

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Restrictive dieting is not recommended for teens as it can impair growth and development. Focus on nutritious eating and regular activity instead.

What if I'm a late bloomer?

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If you haven't hit your growth spurt yet, you might have higher BMI percentile temporarily. This often normalizes as you grow taller.

Looking for the standard BMI calculator?

Go to Main BMI Calculator