How is BMI calculated?
BMI formula:
BMI =
Body weight (kg)
Height2 (in m)
Weight classification in adults based on BMI
The calculated value should be in the range of 18.5-24.9 kg/m² for adults. If the value is above 30 kg/m², this is considered obese.
| Kategorie | BMI (kg/m²) | Description |
| Severe thinness | < 16,00 | < 18,50 Underweight |
| Moderate thinness | 16,00 - 16,99 | < 18,50 Underweight |
| Mild thinness | 17,00 - 18,49 | < 18,50 Underweight |
| Normal weight | 18,50 - 24,99 | Normal weight |
| Pre-obese | 25,00 - 29,99 | ≥ 25 Overweight |
| Obese class I | 30,00 - 34,99 | ≥ 30 Obese |
| Obese class II | 35,00 - 39,99 | ≥ 30 Obese |
| Obese class III | ≥ 40,00 | ≥ 30 Obese |
For it is not only the BMI which serves as a guideline; waist circumference is also helpful here. Investigations have shown that the health risk is increased by excessive fat distribution to the abdomen. The guideline value here is waist circumference, taken from between the bottom rib bone and the top of the pelvis. Men are at higher risk at waist measurements >94 cm, women at >80 cm.