1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. 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: BMI correlates fairly well with body fat percentage for most people, though athletes with high muscle mass may have higher BMI without excess fat.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps identify potential weight problems in adults. While not diagnostic, it's a quick screening tool that can indicate whether weight might be putting health at risk.

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 are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

Q2: Why is BMI important for men's health?
A: Higher BMI in men is associated with increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Q3: How does muscle mass affect BMI?
A: Muscular individuals may have high BMI without excess fat. Additional measurements like waist circumference may be needed.

Q4: Is BMI different for athletes?
A: Yes, athletes often have higher BMI due to muscle mass rather than fat. Other assessments may be more appropriate.

Q5: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every 6-12 months is sufficient unless actively trying to change weight.