1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: The formula provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides the most useful population-level measure of overweight and obesity as it is the same for both sexes and for all ages of adults. However, it should be considered a rough guide because it may not correspond to the same degree of fatness in different individuals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter 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 is a healthy BMI range?
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 or above is obese.

Q2: Does BMI apply to everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes (who may have high muscle mass), pregnant women, the elderly, or children (who need age-specific charts).

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q4: Are there better measures than BMI?
A: Waist circumference and body fat percentage may provide additional information, but BMI remains the most widely used screening tool.

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