Adult BMI categories
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Healthy weight |
| 25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and above | Obesity |
BMI = 703 × weight (lb) ÷ height (in)² BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)²
What BMI doesn't tell you
BMI doesn't separate muscle from fat, so athletes can score high. It also doesn't show where fat is stored. Waist size, blood pressure, and blood tests give a fuller picture.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this for children or teens?
No. For people under 20, BMI is compared with growth charts by age and sex. Ask a pediatrician for a child's BMI percentile.
Is BMI the same for men and women?
The adult formula and categories are the same for everyone, although body composition differs between people.