1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of surface area, providing a standardized way to compare weight status across different heights.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients. It's a quick screening tool for potential weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate 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.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every 6-12 months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q4: Does BMI apply to children?
A: Children's BMI is interpreted differently using age- and sex-specific percentiles rather than fixed categories.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI for hockey players?
A: Elite hockey players often have BMIs in the normal or slightly overweight range due to high muscle mass, but individual assessment is important.