BMI Calculator
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a screening number calculated from your height and weight. It's the most widely used tool for classifying whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese — and takes just two measurements.
BMI Formula
For imperial units: BMI = (Weight in lbs × 703) ÷ Height in inches²
BMI Categories (WHO)
- Below 18.5 — Underweight. May indicate nutritional deficiency.
- 18.5 – 24.9 — Normal weight. Associated with the lowest health risk.
- 25 – 29.9 — Overweight. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
- 30 and above — Obese. Significantly elevated health risks.
Limitations of BMI
BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. A bodybuilder may register as "obese" while having very low body fat. Conversely, an older adult can have a "normal" BMI while carrying excess fat due to muscle loss. Use BMI as a starting point, not a final verdict.
BMI for Indians
Research suggests South Asians face higher metabolic risk at lower BMI values. Some guidelines recommend using BMI 23 as the overweight threshold for Asian populations, though standard clinical practice still uses the WHO scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BMI the same for men and women?
The same scale applies to both. However, women naturally carry more body fat at the same BMI, so some experts argue for gender-specific thresholds. Standard WHO categories are gender-neutral.
Can I have a healthy BMI but still be unhealthy?
Yes. "Skinny fat" — normal BMI with high body fat and low muscle — is a real phenomenon. Waist circumference and body fat percentage give a more complete picture.