BMI ranges explained, healthy weight charts for every height, and the real limitations of BMI as a health measure according to the CDC.
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple calculation used worldwide to categorize weight relative to height. It's one of the most widely used health screening tools — but it's also one of the most misunderstood. Here's everything you need to know.
Imperial formula: BMI = (weight in lbs × 703) ÷ (height in inches)²
Metric formula: BMI = weight in kg ÷ (height in meters)²
Person: 5'8" tall (68 inches), 160 lbs · BMI = (160 × 703) ÷ (68²) = 112,480 ÷ 4,624 = 24.3 (Normal weight)
| Height | Underweight (below 18.5) | Normal Weight (18.5–24.9) | Overweight (25–29.9) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'0" (60") | Below 95 lbs | 95–128 lbs | 128–153 lbs |
| 5'2" (62") | Below 101 lbs | 101–136 lbs | 136–163 lbs |
| 5'4" (64") | Below 108 lbs | 108–145 lbs | 145–174 lbs |
| 5'6" (66") | Below 115 lbs | 115–154 lbs | 154–185 lbs |
| 5'8" (68") | Below 122 lbs | 122–164 lbs | 164–197 lbs |
| 5'10" (70") | Below 129 lbs | 129–174 lbs | 174–209 lbs |
| 6'0" (72") | Below 136 lbs | 136–184 lbs | 184–220 lbs |
| 6'2" (74") | Below 144 lbs | 144–194 lbs | 194–233 lbs |
BMI is a useful screening tool but has significant limitations that every person should understand:
The CDC recommends using BMI alongside other measurements for a complete health picture: waist circumference, blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels. BMI alone should never be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition.
Use our free BMI calculator to find your BMI, healthy weight range, and ideal weight in seconds.
Calculate My BMI →