1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = 703 × weight (lb) / [height (in)]². It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula for imperial units:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in pounds (lb)
• \( height \) — Height in inches (in)
• 703 — Conversion factor for imperial units

Explanation: The equation correlates weight with the square of height to estimate body fat percentage.

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 pounds and height in inches. For most accurate results, measure weight in the morning before eating and height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Why is BMI important?
A: Higher BMI is associated with increased risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Q4: Should women use different BMI calculations?
A: The same BMI calculations apply to both men and women, though women naturally have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

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