Body Mass Index (BMI) Chart
What Is a BMI Chart
A Body Mass Index (BMI) chart is a visual tool that helps you understand how your weight compares to standard health categories based on your height. Instead of doing calculations manually, a BMI chart displays a grid where height and weight intersect, making it easy to see whether your BMI falls under underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obesity.
BMI charts are commonly used by doctors, health organizations, schools, and fitness professionals as a quick screening tool. They are not meant to diagnose health conditions but to provide a basic understanding of general weight patterns.
BMI Chart
Healthy Weight Range by Height
The table below shows the weight range that corresponds to a "normal" BMI (18.5–24.9) for each height — the green zone of the chart above, in both metric and imperial units.
| Height (cm) | Height (ft/in) | Healthy range (kg) | Healthy range (lb) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 145 | 4′9″ | 38.9 – 52.4 | 86 – 115 |
| 150 | 4′11″ | 41.6 – 56.0 | 92 – 124 |
| 155 | 5′1″ | 44.4 – 59.8 | 98 – 132 |
| 160 | 5′3″ | 47.4 – 63.7 | 104 – 141 |
| 165 | 5′5″ | 50.4 – 67.8 | 111 – 149 |
| 170 | 5′7″ | 53.5 – 72.0 | 118 – 159 |
| 175 | 5′9″ | 56.7 – 76.3 | 125 – 168 |
| 180 | 5′11″ | 59.9 – 80.7 | 132 – 178 |
| 185 | 6′1″ | 63.3 – 85.2 | 140 – 188 |
| 190 | 6′3″ | 66.8 – 89.9 | 147 – 198 |
| 195 | 6′5″ | 70.3 – 94.7 | 155 – 209 |
Ranges use the WHO adult reference (BMI 18.5–24.9) and apply to adults 18+. Check your exact value with the BMI calculator.
How the BMI Chart Works
The BMI formula is:
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ [height (m)]²
However, instead of calculating manually, the chart organises weight on one axis and height on the other. Where the two meet shows your approximate BMI range.
Color coding (commonly used in BMI charts):
- Blue / Light Yellow: Underweight
- Green: Healthy Weight
- Yellow / Orange: Overweight
- Red: Obesity
This helps users quickly identify their category at a glance.
Standard Adult BMI Categories
Most organizations like WHO and CDC use the following BMI ranges for adults:
| BMI Range | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Healthy Weight |
| 25 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 and above | Obesity |
These categories apply only to adults aged 18+ and do not vary by gender.
Why the BMI Chart Is Useful
The BMI chart is a helpful educational tool because:
-
It’s quick and easy
You don’t need a calculator or app — just locate your height and weight.
-
It helps track long-term changes
If your weight shifts into a new category over time, it may signal lifestyle changes are needed.
-
It provides a general health reference
Doctors often use BMI as an initial screening before running more detailed tests.
-
It helps identify potential health risks
Higher BMI categories are associated with greater risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure (per WHO and CDC).
Limitations of the BMI Chart
Although widely used, the BMI chart is not perfect. It does not measure:
- Body fat percentage
- Muscle mass
- Bone density
- Body shape
- Fitness level
- Distribution of fat
This means two people with the same BMI can have very different body compositions. Athletes, muscular individuals, older adults, and children may require different assessment methods.
BMI Chart for Children & Teens
For people ages 2 to 19, BMI is interpreted using BMI-for-age percentiles. Children grow at different rates, so categories depend on both age and sex.
Common reference tools:
How to Use a BMI Chart Correctly
- Measure your height and weight accurately.
- Find your height on the chart’s vertical or horizontal axis.
- Locate your weight on the other axis.
- Trace where they intersect — this is your BMI range.
- Compare it to the standard categories.
- Use it as general guidance, not a medical diagnosis.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
If your BMI chart result falls into the underweight, overweight, or obesity range, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They may check:
- Body fat
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Medical history
- Lifestyle habits
- Diet and physical activity
BMI alone cannot determine your overall health.
Conclusion
The BMI chart is a simple and effective way to understand how your weight compares to general health guidelines. While it has limitations, it remains a widely used quick screening tool. For the most accurate results, combine the BMI chart with a BMI calculator and professional medical advice.