Visual Guides
BMI Charts for Men & Women: What is "Normal"?
One size does not fit all. See the official breakdown of BMI categories and how they apply to different demographics.
The Standard BMI Chart
The most common way to check your BMI is using the standard grid. Find your height on the left and weight across the top.
| Category | BMI Range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | Below 18.5 | May need to gain weight for health. |
| Normal Weight | 18.5 – 24.9 | Low risk of weight-related health issues. |
| Overweight | 25.0 – 29.9 | Increased risk of developing health conditions. |
| Obesity | 30.0 and Above | Higher risk of cardiovascular disease. |
Men vs. Women: Is the chart different?
Technically, the standard BMI formula is unisex. A BMI of 25 is "Overweight" for both men and women according to the WHO.
However, body composition differs significantly:
- Men naturally have more muscle mass. A fit male athlete might have a BMI of 28 (Overweight) but very low body fat.
- Women naturally have more essential body fat. A woman with a BMI of 23 might have the same body fat percentage as a man with a BMI of 25.
Visual Context Matters
A number on a chart can't tell you if you are muscular or carrying excess fat. That's why visualization is powerful.
Age-Adjusted BMI (The "Smart" Approach)
As we age, our body composition changes. Often, a slightly higher BMI is protective in older age. The National Research Council (NRC) suggests these age-adjusted ideals:
| Age Group | Ideal BMI Range |
|---|---|
| 19 – 24 | 19 – 24 |
| 25 – 34 | 20 – 25 |
| 35 – 44 | 21 – 26 |
| 45 – 54 | 22 – 27 |
| 65+ | 24 – 29 |