A person weighing 70 kg at 175 cm has a BMI of 22.9, classified as normal weight.
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A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered a healthy range for most adults.
⚠ BMI is a general screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple numerical value derived from a person's weight and height. It is widely used as a screening tool to categorise body weight relative to height and to identify potential weight-related health risks.
The formula is: BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height² (m) for metric units, or BMI = 703 × weight (lbs) ÷ height² (inches) for imperial units.
BMI Categories (WHO Standard)
Limitations of BMI
BMI is a useful population-level screening tool but has known limitations. It does not directly measure body fat, and the same BMI can represent very different body compositions in athletes versus sedentary individuals. Factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, muscle mass, and bone density are not accounted for.
BMI is best used as one of several indicators alongside waist circumference, body fat percentage, blood tests, and clinical assessment. It is not a diagnostic tool. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised health guidance.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is BMI as a health measure?
BMI correlates reasonably well with body fat at a population level but is an imperfect measure for individuals. Athletes with high muscle mass may show a high BMI without excess fat, while older adults may have normal BMI with low muscle mass. Use it as a general indicator alongside other health metrics.
What is a healthy BMI range?
The WHO classifies a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 as normal weight for adults. Some health guidelines adjust these thresholds for different ethnic groups — for example, a lower threshold of 23 is sometimes used for South Asian populations.
Does BMI apply to children?
Standard adult BMI tables do not apply to children and teenagers. BMI-for-age percentile charts are used instead, accounting for normal growth patterns by age and sex.
Can I lose weight based on BMI alone?
BMI can indicate whether weight loss may be beneficial, but any weight management plan should be developed with a healthcare provider. It should account for your individual health status, goals, diet, activity level, and medical history.
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