CDC adult BMI categories
Used for the adult category thresholds that map BMI values into underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity ranges.
View CDC adult BMI categoriesBMI Calculator
Estimate your body mass index instantly using height and weight, then review your weight category and healthy range.
Gender
cm
kg
Pro Tip
Track your BMI trend monthly instead of daily to avoid normal short-term fluctuations.
24.3
Normal weight
Under
Normal
Over
Obese
BMI of 24.3 is within the normal weight range for your height.
60 - 81 kg
Weight divided by height squared.
BMI = kg / m²
Common Questions
BMI Calculator FAQs
Learn more: Read the complete guide →
Is BMI accurate for athletes?
BMI may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight because it does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass.
Does BMI vary by age?
For adults, BMI interpretation is the same regardless of age. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific.
What is a healthy BMI range?
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered normal for most adults.
How is BMI calculated?
BMI is calculated using weight and height: BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]^2.
Why is BMI used?
BMI is a quick, inexpensive screening tool to identify potential weight-related health risks.
Is BMI a reliable measure of health?
BMI is useful but limited. It does not measure body fat directly and may not be accurate for all body types or ethnic groups.
Does BMI differ for men and women?
BMI categories are the same for adult men and women, though body composition differences may affect interpretation.
Can BMI predict health risks?
Higher BMI levels are associated with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions, but BMI alone cannot predict individual health outcomes.
Is BMI the same as body fat percentage?
No. BMI uses only height and weight, while body fat percentage measures actual fat content.
How is BMI interpreted for children?
Children's BMI is compared using percentiles based on age and sex.
Can BMI be wrong?
Yes. BMI may misclassify people with high muscle mass, low muscle mass, or certain medical conditions.
What BMI is considered overweight?
A BMI of 25.0-29.9 is classified as overweight for adults.
What BMI is considered obese?
A BMI of 30.0 or higher is classified as obese for adults.
What are the health risks of high BMI?
High BMI is linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
What are the risks of low BMI?
Low BMI may indicate malnutrition, weakened immunity, or other health issues.
Can BMI change with lifestyle?
Yes. Diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle can influence BMI over time.
Should I rely only on BMI?
No. BMI should be considered alongside other health indicators such as waist circumference, diet, activity level, and medical evaluations.
Data Integrity
Methodology and source verification
The BMI math on this page is cross-checked against the standard body mass index formula used by CDC and NIH resources, along with adult BMI category guidance from public-health references. The calculator estimates BMI and maps it to general adult screening ranges, but it does not replace body-composition testing, waist measurements, or clinical evaluation.
Verified
Reference basis: the calculation engine uses the standard BMI formula from height and weight in metric or converted units, then applies adult BMI screening ranges for underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. The explanatory copy is anchored to CDC and NIH guidance on adult BMI interpretation and limitations.
CDC adult BMI calculator
Used to confirm the standard height-and-weight BMI calculation framework used for adults.
See CDC adult BMI calculator guidanceNIDDK healthy weight guidance
Used for the reminder that BMI is an estimate and should be interpreted alongside broader health context.
Read NIDDK healthy weight guidanceNHLBI BMI calculator
Used to validate the mainstream NIH calculator approach and BMI’s role as a screening tool rather than a diagnosis.
View NHLBI BMI calculator