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.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — 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. The result categorizes weight status.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's used to identify possible weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in meters. For height in centimeters, divide by 100 (e.g., 175 cm = 1.75 m). All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<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 persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: How does age affect BMI interpretation?
A: For adults, BMI interpretation doesn't change with age. For children and teens, BMI is age- and sex-specific.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI for men?
A: Generally 18.5 to 24.9, though individual factors like muscle mass should be considered.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No. Waist circumference, diet, physical activity, and other factors are also important health indicators.