Bmi Calculator Standard And Metric

BMI Formulas:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight\ (kg)}{[height\ (m)]^2} \] \[ BMI = \frac{[weight\ (lbs) \times 703]}{[height\ (inches)]^2} \]

BMI Result:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formulas:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight\ (kg)}{[height\ (m)]^2} \] \[ BMI = \frac{[weight\ (lbs) \times 703]}{[height\ (inches)]^2} \]

Explanation:

For metric units: weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared
For standard units: weight in pounds multiplied by 703, then divided by height in inches squared

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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select your preferred unit system (metric or standard), enter your weight and height, then click calculate. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

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: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q4: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles.

Q5: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution.