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: The formula divides your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. This gives a standardized measure that can be compared across different heights.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For pounds and inches, convert first (1 kg = 2.2 lbs, 1 m = 39.37 inches). 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 men and women?
A: The calculation is the same, but healthy ranges may vary slightly due to different body compositions.

Q3: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight or fail to detect excess fat in older people with muscle loss.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass. Additional measurements like waist circumference may be helpful.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific percentiles rather than the adult categories.