FitSuite Tools

BMI Calculator for Teens

Teen BMI is interpreted differently than adult BMI because bodies are still growing. While this calculator gives you a standard BMI number, teens should compare their result against CDC age-and-sex-specific growth chart percentiles rather than fixed adult categories.

How Teen BMI Differs from Adult BMI

For teens aged 13-19, BMI is plotted on CDC growth charts that account for age and sex. A 'healthy weight' falls between the 5th and 85th percentile for the teen's age group. The 85th-95th percentile is considered overweight, and above the 95th is obese. These percentiles shift because body fat naturally changes during puberty.

Growth Spurts and BMI Fluctuations

It is completely normal for teen BMI to fluctuate during growth spurts. Many teens gain weight before a height increase, temporarily raising their BMI. Tracking BMI over time on a growth chart is far more meaningful than any single measurement. Focus on overall health habits rather than a specific number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this calculator accurate for teenagers?
This calculator gives you the standard BMI number, but for teens, the result should be interpreted using CDC age-and-sex-specific growth chart percentiles rather than the adult categories shown. Ask your pediatrician to plot your BMI on the appropriate growth chart.
What BMI percentile is healthy for a teenager?
For teens, a BMI between the 5th and 85th percentile for their age and sex is considered healthy. Below the 5th percentile is underweight, 85th-95th is overweight, and above the 95th is obese.

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