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.

2. How Does BMI Vary by Body Type?

BMI interpretation should consider body type (somatotype):

• Ectomorphs: Naturally lean with fast metabolism may have lower BMI but still healthy
• Mesomorphs: Muscular builds may have higher BMI without excess fat
• Endomorphs: Naturally stocky may have higher BMI that accurately reflects body composition

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a quick screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems, though it doesn't directly measure body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. Select your predominant body type for a more accurate interpretation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why consider body type with BMI?
A: Body type affects how BMI correlates with actual body fat percentage. Muscular individuals may have high BMI without being overweight.

Q2: What are standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30). These may need adjustment for body type.

Q3: How accurate is BMI?
A: Reasonable for population studies but limited for individuals, especially athletes or those with unusual muscle mass.

Q4: What are alternatives to BMI?
A: Waist circumference, body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio provide additional information.

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