1. What Is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) 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: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For pounds and inches, first convert to metric units (1 kg = 2.2 lbs, 1 m = 39.37 inches).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI?
A: For most adults, an ideal BMI is in the 18.5 to 24.9 range. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q2: Does BMI apply to everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Periodic checks (every few months) can help track weight changes, but don't obsess over daily fluctuations.

Q4: Are there better measures than BMI?
A: Waist circumference and body fat percentage may provide additional information about health risks.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: Children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories.