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 in kilograms by your height in meters squared. This provides a standardized measure that can be compared across different heights.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. For adults 20 years and older, BMI is interpreted using standard weight status categories that are the same for all ages and for both men and women.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most accurate results, measure weight in the morning before eating and after using the toilet. Measure height without shoes.

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 accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and others with muscular builds. It may underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle.

Q3: Why use metric units?
A: The standard BMI formula uses metric units. For imperial units (pounds and inches), the formula is modified to (weight in pounds × 703) / (height in inches²).

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI once or twice a year is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q5: Does BMI differ for women?
A: The same BMI categories apply to both adult men and women. However, women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.