BMI: What It Means and How to Calculate It
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a quick screen of whether your weight is in a healthy range for your height.
Formula
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)². Example: 70 kg and 1.72 m gives 70 ÷ 2.958 = 23.7.
Ranges for Indian adults
Indian guidelines use lower cut-offs than WHO because of higher health risk at lower weights: below 18.5 underweight, 18.5–22.9 normal, 23–24.9 overweight, 25 and above obese.
Limits of BMI
BMI does not separate muscle from fat, so athletes may score high. Waist size is a useful second check. BMI is not a diagnosis; consult a doctor for health advice.
For general information only. See our disclaimer.
Last updated: 2026-11-07