BMI Calculator

Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) and World Health Organization weight classification categories.

Mathematical Verification & Formula

BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)]² = 703 · weight (lbs) / [height (in)]²

BMI is a standardized screening metric recognized by the WHO and CDC to categorize body mass into underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity ranges.

Step-by-Step Calculation Guide

  1. Step 1: Height squared = 1.78 m × 1.78 m = 3.1684 m².
  2. Step 2: Calculate BMI = 75 kg / 3.1684 m² = 23.67 kg/m².
  3. Step 3: Classification: 23.67 falls squarely within the healthy "Normal Weight" range (18.5 - 24.9).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the healthy BMI range for adults?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and CDC, a healthy adult BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m².

What are the clinical limitations of BMI?

BMI measures total mass rather than body composition. It does not differentiate between skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, often misclassifying muscular athletes as overweight.

What additional metrics should be used alongside BMI?

Clinicians recommend pairing BMI with waist-to-hip ratio, DEXA body fat percentage, resting blood pressure, and metabolic lipid panels.