Understanding BMI references and their limits
Enter a height, a weight and the situation that fits you best. The tool calculates the BMI and explains how the references are read, with their limits. A BMI judges neither a person nor their health.
General information, not medical advice. This result does not replace a doctor. If in doubt or if you have symptoms, see a health professional.
Result
22.9BMI
- WHO adult reference: 18.5 to 24.9.
- In adults, BMI is a statistical screening tool: it measures neither fat, nor where it sits, nor health.
- A BMI says nothing about a person’s worth. For any question about your health, talk to a professional.
Inputs
- Height
- 175
- Weight
- 70
- Situation
- Adult
How it is calculated
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)².
Result
BMI
How it is calculated
- BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)².
- WHO adult references: below 18.5; 18.5 to 24.9; 25 to 29.9; 30 or more.
- These references were set on populations: they do not apply to children or during pregnancy, and some populations use other cut-offs.
Example
Height 175 cm, weight 70 kg, adult: BMI 22.9, within the WHO reference of 18.5 to 24.9.
Good to know
- BMI does not tell muscle from fat, nor where fat sits.
- Cut-offs can differ by background (for example, the WHO suggests lower cut-offs for some Asian populations).
- This is not a diagnosis.
Sources
- WHO, Body mass index (BMI), adult classification
- WHO expert consultation, Appropriate body-mass index for Asian populations, The Lancet, 2004
- WHO growth reference for 5-19 years, 2007
Frequently asked questions
What is this tool used for?
Enter a height, a weight and the situation that fits you best. The tool calculates the BMI and explains how the references are read, with their limits. A BMI judges neither a person nor their health.
How is the result calculated?
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)².
What should I check before using the result?
BMI does not tell muscle from fat, nor where fat sits.