1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) 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 equation:

Where:

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

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients. However, it should be used as a screening tool rather than a diagnostic of body fatness or health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms, height in meters, and age in years. For accuracy, measure your height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories for adults?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), and Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI different for women in Australia?
A: The same BMI categories apply to both men and women in Australia, though women typically have higher body fat percentages at the same BMI.

Q3: How does age affect BMI interpretation?
A: Older adults may have a slightly higher BMI range considered normal due to natural changes in body composition with aging.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q5: Should pregnant women use BMI?
A: BMI calculations during pregnancy are not meaningful. Pre-pregnancy BMI is used to determine healthy weight gain recommendations.