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. It 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: The equation divides your weight by the square of your height to determine your body mass index.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It's used to identify potential weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For Canadians, this calculator applies equally to both males and females.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

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

Q3: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/ethnic differences.

Q4: How accurate is BMI for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range for Canadians?
A: Health Canada recommends maintaining a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 for optimal health.