How this calculator works
Weight is converted to kilograms and height to metres, then BMI = weight divided by height squared. The equation and the WHO cutoffs are identical for men and women; the measure does not distinguish muscle from fat or account for individual frame size. BMI is a screening measure for adults aged 20 and over and does not measure body fat directly. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
BMI = weight in kilograms / (height in metres)², with WHO adult categories: below 18.5 underweight; 18.5 to 24.9 normal; 25.0 to 29.9 overweight; 30.0 and above obesity classes I to III.
Worked example
A man weighing 83 kg at 1.78 m has BMI = 83 / 1.78² = 26.2, in the overweight category. At 195 lb and 5 ft 10 in the result is about 28.0.
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a separate BMI chart for men?
No. The World Health Organization uses one equation and one set of adult cutoffs for both sexes. Men simply carry more of their weight as lean mass on average, which BMI cannot see.
Why is my BMI high even though I am muscular?
BMI only relates weight to height. Heavily muscled men often score in the overweight range without excess fat, which is a known limit of the measure. A waist measurement adds useful context.
What about Asian population cutoffs?
Some Asian populations use lower action points, near 23 for overweight and 27.5 for obesity. This page shows the standard WHO cutoffs; a clinician can advise on which apply to you.