Find a practical healthy-weight range using evidence-based BMI bands for adults.
Overview
Healthy weight calculators commonly derive a target interval from BMI boundaries (typically 18.5 to 24.9) and height.
The output is a range, not a perfect number, and should be combined with body composition, labs, and fitness markers.
Steps
Use accurate measured height in cm or feet/inches.
Default adult range is 18.5 to 24.9.
Multiply lower BMI boundary by height squared.
Multiply upper BMI boundary by height squared.
Check position relative to target interval.
Set sustainable weekly gain/loss targets if needed.
Math
Healthy Weight Range = [18.5 x height(m)^2, 24.9 x height(m)^2]
Because BMI is weight divided by height squared, rearranging gives weight targets for any chosen BMI boundary at a fixed height.
Worked cases
Wmin = 18.5 x 1.70^2 = 53.5; Wmax = 24.9 x 1.70^2 = 72.0
Healthy weight range: ~53.5 to 72.0 kg
Wmin = 18.5 x 2.56 = 47.4; Wmax = 24.9 x 2.56 = 63.7
Healthy weight range: ~47.4 to 63.7 kg
Upper healthy target ~72.0 kg; difference = 8.0 kg
Approximate reduction needed to re-enter range: 8 kg
Why use this
Questions