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 and is used to screen for weight categories.

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 number that generally correlates with body fat percentage.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight categories that may lead to health problems. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown BMI correlates with more direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters. For adults, BMI interpretation is the same regardless of age or sex. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, 18.5-24.9 is considered healthy. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q2: Does BMI change with age?
A: For adults, the same BMI categories apply to all ages. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Periodic checks (every 6-12 months) can help track changes, but focus should be on overall health rather than BMI alone.

Q5: Should BMI be different for men and women?
A: The same BMI values apply to both sexes, though women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.