1. What is BMI?

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. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but it's not diagnostic of body fatness or health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters, and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), and Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI different for males and females?
A: The calculation is the same, but interpretation may vary slightly as women naturally have more body fat than men.

Q3: What are Canadian BMI guidelines?
A: Canada uses the same WHO BMI classifications but may have different public health recommendations.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/ethnic differences.

Q5: Should athletes use BMI?
A: Athletes with high muscle mass may have high BMI without excess fat. Additional measurements may be needed.