How the healthy range is set
A healthy weight is expressed as a range rather than a single figure because the normal Body Mass Index band itself spans from 18.5 to 25. The lower bound is the weight that gives a BMI of 18.5 for your height, and the upper bound is the weight at BMI 25.
Since BMI depends only on height and weight, the range scales with the square of your height — taller people have a wider span of healthy weights in absolute kilograms.
Reading the result
The calculator shows the range in both kilograms and pounds, plus the explicit minimum and maximum. The bar chart contrasts the two ends of the band so you can see how much room there is between them.
Any weight between the minimum and maximum is considered healthy for your height. Where you sit within that band is less important than staying inside it over time.
When BMI falls short
BMI is a useful screen but it does not suit everyone:
- It cannot separate muscle from fat, so athletes may exceed the range while lean.
- It ignores where fat is carried — waist size adds important context.
- It is not validated the same way for children, pregnancy or the elderly.
- Two people at the same BMI can have very different health profiles.
Health note
This range is a general guideline based on a population average, not personalised medical advice. Healthy weight depends on body composition, fitness and overall health. Consult a doctor or dietitian before setting weight goals.
Formula
min = 18.5·height²; max = 25·height² (height in metres)Frequently asked questions
- Why a range and not one number?
- A healthy weight spans the whole normal BMI band, so any weight between the minimum and maximum is considered healthy for your height.