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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 = 703 × weight (lb) / [height (in)]². It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:
Where:
Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in pounds by height in inches squared, then multiplying by a conversion factor of 703.
Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It correlates with direct measures of body fat and is strongly associated with various metabolic and disease outcomes.
Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in inches. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For women over 5 feet 8 inches (68 inches), this calculator provides accurate BMI assessment.
Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.
Q2: Is BMI different for women?
A: The same BMI categories apply to both men and women, though women typically have more body fat than men at the same BMI.
Q3: Does BMI apply to tall women?
A: BMI is generally accurate for women over 5'8", though very tall individuals may have slightly higher BMI due to increased bone and muscle mass.
Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so muscular individuals may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.
Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No. BMI should be used alongside other measures like waist circumference, diet, physical activity, and family history for a complete health assessment.