Health & Fitness
BMI Calculator
Calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index) and see your weight category using both WHO global standards and the stricter Asia-Pacific cut-offs recommended for Indian and South Asian populations. Indians face higher metabolic risks at lower BMI values than Western populations.
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height² (m²). Our calculator also shows your healthy weight range, how much to gain or lose, and personalised health advice. Supports both metric (kg/cm) and imperial (lbs/ft) inputs.
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What is BMI?
BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated as: BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height² (m). It is a quick screening tool — not a diagnostic measure. Athletes may have elevated BMI due to muscle mass; the number alone does not distinguish fat from muscle.
| BMI range | WHO category | Asian/Indian cut-off |
|---|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight | Same |
| 18.5 – 22.9 | Normal weight | Normal (18.5–22.9) |
| 23.0 – 24.9 | Overweight (starts at 25) | Overweight (23–27.4) |
| 25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight | Obese (≥27.5) |
| 30.0 – 34.9 | Obese Class I | Obese Class I |
| 35 – 39.9 | Obese Class II | Obese Class II |
| ≥ 40 | Obese Class III | Obese Class III |
For South Asian populations, health risks (type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease) emerge at lower BMI values. The WHO Asia-Pacific guidelines recommend using 23 as the overweight threshold and 27.5 as the obesity threshold for Indians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BMI accurate for Indians?▼
Standard WHO BMI cut-offs were established on European populations. Indians tend to have higher body fat percentages at the same BMI compared to Caucasians. The WHO Asia-Pacific taskforce recommends 23 as overweight and 27.5 as obese for South Asians. Our calculator shows both standard and Asian classifications.
What is a healthy BMI for a woman in India?▼
Using Asian cut-offs, a healthy BMI for Indian women is 18.5–22.9. For standard WHO: 18.5–24.9. However, waist circumference is often a better predictor of health risk — above 80 cm for women indicates abdominal obesity, which carries independent cardiovascular risk.
Can you have a normal BMI and still be unhealthy?▼
Yes — this is called 'normal weight obesity' or 'skinny fat'. A person with BMI 22 but very low muscle mass and high body fat percentage can still have metabolic risk factors. Conversely, a muscular athlete with BMI 27 may be perfectly healthy. BMI is a population-level screening tool, not an individual diagnosis.
How do I lose weight to reach a healthy BMI?▼
A calorie deficit of 500 kcal/day typically yields ~0.5 kg/week of fat loss. Combining diet (high protein, reduced refined carbs) with resistance training preserves muscle while losing fat. A realistic target is 0.5–1 kg/week. Consult a registered dietitian for a personalised plan, especially if you have medical conditions.
What BMI is considered dangerously underweight?▼
BMI below 16.0 is classified as severely underweight and carries serious health risks including malnutrition, anaemia, hormonal disruption, and osteoporosis. BMI 16.0–16.99 is moderately underweight, and 17.0–18.49 is mildly underweight. Medical evaluation is recommended for BMI below 17.5.