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. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

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 is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters. The result places the individual in one of several weight categories.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight categories that may indicate health problems. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown that BMI correlates with more direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. 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), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), and Obese (≥30).

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

Q3: Why use metric units?
A: The standard BMI formula uses metric units. For imperial units (pounds and inches), the formula is adjusted with a conversion factor.

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

Q5: Should BMI be used alone to assess health?
A: No. BMI should be considered along with other assessments like waist circumference, diet, physical activity, and family history.