BMI Calculator

BMI Formula:

\[ BMI = 703 \times \frac{weight}{height^2} \]

BMI:

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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. This calculator uses the imperial system version of the formula.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI equation for imperial units:

\[ BMI = 703 \times \frac{weight\ (lb)}{height^2\ (in)} \]

Where:

\( weight \) — Weight in pounds (lb)
\( height \) — Height in inches (in)
703 — Conversion factor for imperial units

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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in 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), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Why use imperial units?
A: This calculator uses pounds and inches as these are commonly used measurements in some countries.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, a healthy range is 18.5 to 24.9.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles.