BMI Formula:
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Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.
The calculator uses the BMI formula:
Where:
Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.
Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It's used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).
Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).
Q2: Does BMI apply to everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.
Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution.
Q4: Is BMI different for children?
A: Yes, BMI for children is age- and sex-specific and is referred to as BMI-for-age.
Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.