Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple screening tool that tells you if your weight is healthy for your height. It's used by doctors, insurance companies, and fitness professionals worldwide to quickly assess health risk categories.
Calculate Your BMI Now
Use our Free BMI Calculator to instantly check your BMI. Enter your height and weight in either metric (kg/cm) or imperial (lbs/feet/inches) units.
BMI Formula
BMI is calculated using this simple formula:
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)
For example: If you weigh 70kg and are 1.75m tall: BMI = 70 ÷ (1.75 × 1.75) = 70 ÷ 3.0625 = 22.86
BMI Categories (WHO Standard)
| BMI Range | Category | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight | Nutritional deficiency risk |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal | Low risk |
| 25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight | Increased risk |
| 30.0 – 34.9 | Obesity Class I | High risk |
| 35.0 – 39.9 | Obesity Class II | Very high risk |
| 40.0+ | Obesity Class III | Extremely high risk |
Indian / Asian BMI Cutoffs
The WHO standard was designed for Western populations. For Indians and South Asians, health risks begin at lower BMI values. Indian-specific categories:
| BMI Range | Category (Indian) |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 22.9 | Normal |
| 23.0 – 24.9 | Overweight |
| 25.0+ | Obese |
BMI for Different Groups
BMI for Indian Men
The ideal BMI for Indian men is between 18.5 and 22.9. Indian men are at elevated risk for metabolic syndrome (diabetes, heart disease) above BMI 23.
BMI for Indian Women
Same cutoffs apply. Women with BMI above 23 should monitor blood sugar levels and get regular checkups.
BMI for Children
Children's BMI is assessed using age-specific percentile charts rather than fixed cutoffs. Consult a pediatrician for accurate assessment.
Limitations of BMI
- Does not distinguish between muscle mass and fat mass — athletes may show high BMI
- Does not account for body fat distribution — visceral fat (belly fat) is more dangerous
- Not suitable for pregnant women, elderly, or bodybuilders
Related Tools
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