What is a healthy BMI for teens?
A healthy BMI for teens falls between the 5th and 84th percentile based on age and gender.
BMI Calculator for Teens – Body Mass Index Tool
BMI for teens is calculated differently than for adults. Instead of fixed BMI numbers, teenagers use age- and gender-based percentiles to account for growth, puberty, and body composition changes. This guide explains how teen BMI works, what is considered healthy, and how to interpret results safely.
Calculate your BMI first using our BMI Calculator to understand your current weight category and health status.
How BMI for Teens Is Different from Adults
Teen bodies change rapidly during puberty. Growth spurts can temporarily raise or lower BMI. Muscle, bone, and fat develop at different rates. Fixed adult BMI ranges can be misleading for teenagers.
Why Adult BMI Does Not Apply to Teens
- Teen bodies change rapidly during puberty
- Growth spurts can temporarily raise or lower BMI
- Muscle, bone, and fat develop at different rates
- Fixed adult BMI ranges can be misleading for teenagers
BMI Percentiles Explained
Instead of fixed BMI values, teens are assessed using percentiles. A percentile compares a teen's BMI with others of the same age and gender. For example, a 60th percentile BMI means the teen has a higher BMI than 60% of peers.
Healthy BMI Percentile Categories for Teens
The table below shows how BMI percentiles are categorized for teenagers.
Percentiles are based on CDC and WHO growth charts. Results should be viewed over time, not as a single measurement. Short-term changes during puberty are common.
BMI for Teens FAQ
How do I calculate BMI for a teenager?
BMI is calculated using height and weight, then compared to age- and gender-specific percentile charts.
Is BMI accurate during puberty?
BMI can fluctuate during puberty due to growth spurts and hormonal changes, so trends over time are more important.
Related Resources
Medical References & Trusted Sources
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Global authority on obesity classification and health standards. Our BMI categories follow WHO guidelines established in 1993.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Leading U.S. public health agency providing evidence-based guidelines for weight assessment and health promotion.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Primary U.S. agency for biomedical research, providing comprehensive health information and clinical guidelines.
- Mayo Clinic - World-renowned medical institution providing patient-centered health information and evidence-based medical guidance.