Formula
The World Health Organization adult index uses kilograms and meters:
BMI = kg / m²
Height in centimeters is divided by 100 before it is squared. The result is rounded to one decimal for display. The band uses the unrounded value and the adult cutoffs 18.5, 25, and 30.
Assumptions
- Weight is kilograms and height is centimeters.
- The bands are adult screening cutoffs, not a personal health verdict.
- Muscle, age, and pregnancy are not part of the formula.
Worked example
70 kg at 175 cm gives a BMI of 22.9, inside the 18.5 to 24.9 adult screening band.
Input definitions
- Weight
- Body weight in kilograms, from 2 to 500.
- Height
- Standing height in centimeters, from 50 to 272.
Limitations
This is an informational estimate for adults. It is not a diagnosis, a diet plan, or a training prescription. Pregnancy, illness, and medication can change what a safe target is.
Questions
Does a band mean a medical result?
No. The bands are published adult screening ranges. They do not diagnose a condition.
Why is the index not used alone for athletes?
The formula only compares weight with height. It does not measure muscle, fat, or fitness.