A BMI of 24.2 (70 kg, 170 cm) is in the healthy weight range.
What BMI does and doesn't tell you
BMI is a quick screening calculation, weight divided by height squared, used to flag whether someone's weight falls within a typical range for their height. It's widely used because it's simple and needs no special equipment beyond a scale and a tape measure.
It's not a diagnosis, though. BMI can't tell the difference between muscle and fat, so a very muscular person may show a higher BMI without having excess body fat. It also doesn't account for where fat is distributed, which matters for health risk. Use it as a starting point, not a final word, and talk to a doctor for a fuller picture.
Frequently asked questions
How is BMI calculated?
BMI is your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres, squared. It gives a rough indicator of whether your weight falls within a typical range for your height.
What are the BMI category ranges?
Under 18.5 is classified as underweight, 18.5 to 24.9 as normal weight, 25 to 29.9 as overweight, and 30 and above as obese, following the standard WHO ranges.
Is BMI an accurate measure of health?
BMI is a simple screening tool, not a diagnosis. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes and very muscular people can show a higher BMI without carrying excess body fat. Talk to a doctor for a fuller picture of your health.