How it is calculated
- Height in centimetres = (feet × 12 + inches) × 2.54.
- BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)².
- WHO (adults): under 18.5 underweight, 18.5 to under 25 normal, 25 or more overweight, 30 or more obese. Asian action points: 23 and 27.5.
Example: 5 feet 7 inches (170.18 cm) and 72 kg. The BMI is 24.9: normal by the WHO categories, but above the Asian action point of 23. At this height the normal range is 53.6 to 72.4 kg, and staying under a BMI of 23 means up to 66.6 kg.
Weight by height
| Height | Normal weight (WHO) | Below Asian action point of 23 |
|---|---|---|
| 5 ft 0 in | 43–58.1 kg | up to 53.4 kg |
| 5 ft 3 in | 47.4–64 kg | up to 58.9 kg |
| 5 ft 6 in | 52–70.3 kg | up to 64.6 kg |
| 5 ft 9 in | 56.8–76.8 kg | up to 70.6 kg |
| 6 ft 0 in | 61.9–83.6 kg | up to 76.9 kg |
This calculator is for adults only and is not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before making decisions about your weight or health.
Frequently asked questions
How is BMI calculated?
BMI is your weight in kilograms divided by the square of your height in metres. Someone who weighs 70 kg and is 1.75 m tall has a BMI of 70 ÷ (1.75 × 1.75) = 22.9. If you know your height in feet and inches, multiply the total inches by 2.54 to get centimetres.
What is a healthy BMI?
For adults, WHO counts a BMI under 18.5 as underweight, 25 or more as overweight and 30 or more as obese, so 18.5 to under 25 is the normal range.
Why is there a lower cut-off for Pakistanis and other Asians?
A WHO expert consultation (published in The Lancet in 2004) found that many Asian people already have a substantial risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease at a BMI below 25. It kept the WHO categories as the international standard but added public health action points at 23 and 27.5 for Asian populations. A BMI of 23 or more is a sign to watch your weight and talk to a doctor.
Can children use this BMI calculator?
No. These cut-offs are for adults. Children and teenagers are still growing, so their BMI is judged against age and sex charts. Ask a doctor or use the WHO growth charts.
Is BMI accurate for everyone?
BMI is a quick screening number. It does not measure body fat directly, so it can mislead for very muscular people, older people and pregnant women. It is not medical advice; a doctor can look at your waist size, blood pressure, blood sugar and other measures.
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Sources
- World Health Organization: Obesity and overweight, fact sheet (adult BMI ≥25 overweight, ≥30 obesity)
- WHO Global Health Observatory: Body mass index (underweight among adults, BMI < 18.5)
- WHO Expert Consultation: Appropriate body-mass index for Asian populations, The Lancet 2004;363:157-63
This calculator gives an estimate for guidance. It is not official advice. Rates and rules change, so confirm important decisions with the relevant authority or a qualified professional. See how we calculate, or report a mistake.