Body Mass Index calculator with health range indicator. BMI for adults using metric and imperial units.
📖 Read our detailed guide: BMI Calculator — everything you need to know
Read Guide →BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple measure using your weight and height: BMI = weight(kg) / height(m) squared. For example, a person weighing 70 kg and 1.75 m tall has a BMI of 22.86. It is widely used by doctors as a quick screening tool.
WHO BMI categories: Underweight (below 18.5), Normal weight (18.5 to 24.9), Overweight (25 to 29.9), Obese Class I (30 to 34.9), Obese Class II (35 to 39.9), Obese Class III (40+). For Asian populations, overweight starts at 23 and obese at 25 due to higher health risks at lower BMIs.
BMI is useful but has limitations. It does not distinguish between muscle and fat, so muscular athletes may show a high BMI despite being healthy. It also does not account for bone density, age, gender, or fat distribution. Combine BMI with waist circumference and body fat percentage for a complete picture.
For Indian and South Asian populations, health risks increase at lower BMIs. The recommended healthy range is 18.5 to 22.9. A BMI above 23 is considered overweight and above 25 is obese for Indians, compared to the global thresholds of 25 and 30 respectively.
Check your BMI once every 3 to 6 months, especially if you are on a weight management plan. However, BMI alone is not enough. Track your waist circumference, activity level, and overall diet quality for a holistic view of your health.