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. 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:

• \( weight \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m) - converted from cm in this calculator

Explanation: The calculator first converts height from centimeters to meters by dividing by 100, then applies the standard BMI formula.

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: Enter weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard 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 those with muscular builds, and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Why use metric measurements?
A: Metric measurements (kg and cm/m) are the standard for BMI calculations worldwide, including in the UK.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: Children's BMI is interpreted differently using age and sex-specific percentiles, not this adult calculator.