BMI Chart for Adults
Complete Body Mass Index reference chart showing all weight categories, BMI ranges, and associated health risks based on the World Health Organization (WHO) classification.
Standard BMI Categories (WHO)
| BMI Range | Category | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight | May indicate malnutrition, eating disorder, or other health issues |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal weight | Lowest risk — associated with good metabolic health |
| 25.0 – 29.9 | Overweight | Moderate risk — increased likelihood of cardiovascular issues |
| 30.0 – 34.9 | Obese Class I | High risk — significantly elevated health risk |
| 35.0 – 39.9 | Obese Class II | Very high risk — severe health complications likely |
| 40.0 and above | Obese Class III | Extremely high risk — morbid obesity, immediate medical attention advised |
Healthy Weight Range by Height
| Height (cm) | Height (ft/in) | Healthy Weight (kg) | Healthy Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 155 | 5'1" | 44 – 60 | 97 – 132 |
| 160 | 5'3" | 47 – 64 | 104 – 141 |
| 165 | 5'5" | 50 – 68 | 110 – 150 |
| 170 | 5'7" | 53 – 72 | 117 – 159 |
| 175 | 5'9" | 57 – 76 | 126 – 168 |
| 180 | 5'11" | 60 – 81 | 132 – 179 |
| 185 | 6'1" | 63 – 85 | 139 – 188 |
| 190 | 6'3" | 67 – 90 | 148 – 198 |
Healthy weight range calculated for BMI 18.5–24.9.
How to Read This BMI Chart
Body Mass Index is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in metres: BMI = kg / m². Once you have your BMI number, locate it in the table above to find your weight category.
Keep in mind that BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. Factors like muscle mass, bone density, ethnicity, and age can all influence what a healthy BMI means for you specifically. Use it as a starting point and consult a healthcare provider for a complete health assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal BMI for adults?▼
A normal (healthy) BMI for adults is 18.5 to 24.9. Values below 18.5 are underweight, 25–29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese per the World Health Organization.
Does the BMI chart differ for men and women?▼
The standard WHO chart uses the same numeric ranges for both sexes. However, women typically carry slightly more body fat at the same BMI due to physiological differences, so clinical interpretation may vary.
Does BMI change with age?▼
The standard BMI chart applies to all adults. However, some guidelines suggest slightly higher BMI thresholds (23–30) may be associated with better outcomes in adults over 65.
Is BMI accurate for athletes?▼
BMI can overestimate body fat in muscular athletes because muscle is denser than fat. A 90 kg bodybuilder and a 90 kg sedentary person have the same BMI but very different body compositions.