BMI (Body Mass Index) is one of the most widely used tools to assess whether a person has a healthy body weight relative to their height. In this article, we explain what your BMI score means, its limitations, and how to calculate it.
BMI Categories (WHO Standard)
- Below 18.5 — Underweight
- 18.5 – 24.9 — Normal weight ✅
- 25.0 – 29.9 — Overweight
- 30.0 – 34.9 — Obese (Class I)
- 35.0 – 39.9 — Obese (Class II)
- 40.0+ — Severely Obese (Class III)
How to Calculate Your BMI
Use our free BMI Calculator to get your result instantly. Or use the formula manually:
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m)
Example: A person weighing 70 kg with a height of 1.75 m: BMI = 70 ÷ (1.75 × 1.75) = 70 ÷ 3.0625 = 22.9 — Normal weight.
What Is a Good BMI?
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy for most adults. This range is associated with the lowest risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful screening tool, it has important limitations. It does not account for muscle mass (athletes may have a high BMI despite low body fat), age, sex differences in body composition, or ethnic variations in health risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a BMI of 25 considered overweight?
Yes. A BMI of 25 or above falls in the “Overweight” category. However, this does not necessarily mean someone is unhealthy — context matters.
What BMI is considered obese?
A BMI of 30 or above is classified as obese according to WHO standards.
Can BMI be inaccurate?
Yes. BMI can overestimate body fat in very muscular individuals and underestimate it in older adults who have lost muscle mass. Always consult a healthcare provider for a full assessment.
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