Understand your BMI
Body mass index compares weight with height and is used worldwide as a quick screening measure for adults. Enter your height and weight in metric or imperial units to see your BMI, your category and the healthy weight range for your height, along with how much to lose or gain to reach it.
Research shows people of Asian descent face higher risks of diabetes and heart disease at lower BMIs, so the WHO suggests lower cut-offs for Asian adults: healthy 18.5–22.9, overweight 23–24.9, obese 25 and above. Tick Use Asian BMI ranges to apply them.
How to calculate BMI
- 1
Choose units
cm and kg, or feet/inches and pounds.
- 2
Enter height and weight
Use the sliders or type exact values.
- 3
Choose the ranges
Standard (CDC and WHO) or Asian.
- 4
Read your result
BMI, category and healthy weight range.
Key features
Metric and imperial
Switch units without losing your values.
Asian cut-offs
Recommended for South Asian adults.
Healthy weight range
For your exact height.
Visual scale
See where you are on the BMI bar.
Common uses
- Health check-ups: Track your BMI over time.
- Fitness goals: Set a realistic target weight.
- Forms: Fill in BMI for insurance or medical forms.
BMI categories for adults
| Category | Standard (CDC / WHO) | Asian adults |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Below 18.5 | Below 18.5 |
| Healthy | 18.5 – 24.9 | 18.5 – 22.9 |
| Overweight | 25 – 29.9 | 23 – 24.9 |
| Obese | 30 and above | 25 and above |
Tips and good to know
- BMI doesn't distinguish muscle from fat, so very muscular people can show a high BMI while being healthy.
- Waist size matters too: over 40 inches (102 cm) for men or 35 inches (88 cm) for women suggests higher health risk.
- For daily calorie needs, try the Calorie Calculator.