BMI Calculator for Women
BMI is weight relative to height squared. It is a screening number, not a diagnosis — but it is the standard first check, with a healthy range for your height.
How it works
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)2. Categories (WHO): under 18.5 underweight, 18.5–24.9 healthy, 25–29.9 overweight, 30+ obese. Healthy weight range = 18.5 × height2 to 24.9 × height2.
Example: 70 kg at 170 cm: BMI = 70 ÷ 1.702 = 24.22, healthy, with a healthy range of 53.5–72.0 kg. At 165 lb and 5'5" (65 in): BMI 27.46, overweight.
Frequently asked questions
Is BMI different for women?
The formula is the same, but the meaning differs slightly: women naturally carry more body fat at the same BMI, and the healthy range is a screening band, not a target weight.
Why is BMI criticised?
Because it ignores muscle mass, bone density and fat distribution. A muscular person can score 'overweight' while being lean; waist circumference adds the missing context.
What BMI is healthiest?
Large studies find the lowest health risk around 20–25 for most adults, with risk rising at both ends — very low BMI carries risks too.
Does BMI apply during pregnancy?
No — pregnancy weight gain is judged against pre-pregnancy BMI with separate trimester targets, not the standard categories.