A Body Mass Index (BMI) chart helps adults understand how their weight relates to their height. For most adults aged 20 and older, BMI is classified into four main categories: underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis, and should be considered alongside other health indicators.
Use our BMI Calculator to calculate your Body Mass Index using your height and weight.
BMI Chart for Adults
| BMI range (kg/m²) | Category |
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 to 24.9 | Healthy weight |
| 25.0 to 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and above | Obesity |
These are commonly used adult BMI categories. Some clinical guidelines use different thresholds for particular populations, including Asian populations.
How Do You Calculate BMI?
BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in metres.
BMI formula:
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height (m)²
For example, if you weigh 70 kg and are 1.75 metres tall:
BMI = 70 ÷ (1.75 × 1.75) = 22.86
A BMI of approximately 22.9 falls within the standard healthy-weight range for adults.
You can calculate your result more easily with our Body Mass Index Calculator by entering your height and weight.
What Is a Healthy BMI Range?
For adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is generally considered the healthy-weight range under standard international classifications. However, a BMI within this range does not automatically mean that a person has no health risks.
Factors such as muscle mass, body fat distribution, age, medical history, and waist circumference can affect how a BMI result should be interpreted.
Is the Standard BMI Chart Suitable for Indians?
The standard adult BMI categories are widely used, but health risks associated with excess body fat can occur at lower BMI levels in many Asian populations.
For this reason, some clinical guidelines use lower BMI thresholds to identify increased metabolic risk in Asian adults. The appropriate interpretation depends on the guideline and the individual’s circumstances.
If you are using BMI to assess your health, consider discussing your result with a qualified healthcare professional, particularly if you have other risk factors.
What Are the Limitations of a BMI Chart?
A BMI chart is useful for an initial assessment, but it has several limitations:
- It does not directly measure body fat.
- It does not distinguish muscle mass from fat mass.
- It does not show where body fat is distributed.
- It may not fully reflect health risks in every age group or population.
- It should not be interpreted in the same way for children and teenagers as for adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal BMI for adults?
A BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 is generally classified as healthy weight under standard adult BMI categories.
Is a BMI of 25 considered overweight?
Yes. Under standard adult classifications, a BMI of 25 to 29.9 falls within the overweight category. Some population-specific guidelines use different thresholds.
Can BMI tell me whether I am healthy?
No. BMI is a screening measure rather than a complete assessment of health. Other measurements, medical history, and clinical evaluation may also be important.
How can I calculate my BMI?
Divide your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. You can also use an online BMI Calculator to obtain the result automatically.