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. It 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
• \( height \) — Height in meters

Explanation: The formula divides your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. This gives a number that helps categorize your weight status.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Healthy weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), and Obese (30 or higher).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with muscular build, and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific percentiles rather than the adult BMI categories.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. However, optimal BMI may vary by age and ethnicity.

Q5: Does BMI measure body fat?
A: BMI is a surrogate measure of body fat but doesn't directly measure body fat. Other methods like skinfold thickness or bioelectrical impedance may be needed.