BMI Formula

Health Formula • Published on July 30, 2026 • Last updated July 30, 2026

Mathematical Equation

$$BMI = \frac{weight\ (kg)}{height^2\ (m^2)}$$

Variable Definitions

weight (kg)

Body weight in kilograms

height (m)

Body height in meters

Detailed Explanation

In-Depth Guide

Key Concept

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple, widely used metric to estimate whether a person has a healthy body weight relative to their height.

BMI categorizes individuals into underweight (under 18.5), normal weight (18.5 - 24.9), overweight (25 - 29.9), and obese (30 and above).

It acts as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems for adults.

How to Calculate: Step-by-Step

1. Measure your weight in kilograms ($kg$). 2. Measure your height in meters ($m$). 3. Square your height in meters ($height \times height$). 4. Divide your weight in kg by your squared height to calculate your BMI.

Worked Calculation Example

An individual weighs 75 kg and is 1.75 meters (175 cm) tall: - Weight = 75 kg - Height = 1.75 m - Height squared = $1.75 \times 1.75 = 3.0625$ m² - Calculate BMI: $$BMI = \frac{75}{3.0625} \approx 24.49$$ - A BMI of 24.49 falls into the "Normal Weight" category (18.5 - 24.9).

Common Use Cases

  • Screening tool for body weight categories
  • Tracking physical fitness and health progress
  • Basic healthcare assessment for obesity-related health risks

Frequently Asked Questions

BMI is a general screening tool. It does not measure body fat directly. For athletes or highly muscular individuals, BMI may overestimate body fatness because muscle weighs more than fat.

Underweight: <18.5, Normal: 18.5–24.9, Overweight: 25–29.9, Obese: 30 or higher.

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