Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool to check if your weight is healthy for your height. This guide explains how to use our free BMI calculator, how to read the results, and what the Indian-specific BMI thresholds mean.
What is BMI?
BMI is calculated by dividing your weight (in kg) by the square of your height (in metres). The formula is: BMI = weight(kg) ÷ height(m)². For example, a person who weighs 70 kg and is 1.70 m tall has a BMI of 70 ÷ (1.70 × 1.70) = 24.2.
Step-by-Step: Using the BMI Calculator
Step 1 — Enter your weightEnter your current weight in kilograms. Weigh yourself in the morning before meals for the most accurate reading. Example: 68 kg.
Step 2 — Enter your heightEnter your height in centimetres or switch to feet/inches. Example: 165 cm or 5 feet 5 inches.
Step 3 — Click CalculateYour BMI score appears immediately along with your category, ideal weight range, and a colour-coded indicator.
Step 4 — Read the resultUse the Indian BMI chart below to interpret your score. Indian adults face metabolic risk at lower BMI values than Western populations.
BMI Chart for Indian Adults (Asian Thresholds)
BMI Range
Category
Health Risk
Below 18.5
Underweight
Moderate
18.5 – 22.9
Normal weight
Low
23.0 – 24.9
Overweight
Increased
25.0 – 29.9
Obese Class I
High
30 and above
Obese Class II+
Very High
Note: The World Health Organization (WHO) sets the overweight threshold at 25 for Western populations. India's National Institute of Nutrition recommends using 23 as the overweight cut-off for South Asians.
BMI Limitations
BMI does not account for muscle mass, age, or gender. A bodybuilder may show as "obese" and an elderly person with low muscle mass may appear "normal" despite being at risk. Use BMI alongside waist circumference and other health indicators for a fuller picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a healthy BMI for an Indian woman?
18.5 to 22.9 is considered normal. A BMI of 23 or above is considered overweight for South Asian women, based on ICMR guidelines.
How do I calculate BMI without a calculator?
Divide your weight (kg) by your height in metres squared. For 60 kg and 1.60 m: 60 ÷ (1.6 × 1.6) = 60 ÷ 2.56 = BMI 23.4.
Can children use this BMI calculator?
This calculator is designed for adults (18+). For children, BMI is interpreted using age- and gender-specific growth charts.