1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. This calculator includes half-inch precision for more accurate measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula adjusted for half-inch precision:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Weight in pounds (lbs)
• \( height \) — Height in inches (including half inches, e.g., 65.5)
• 703 — Conversion factor (kg/m² to lbs/in²)

Explanation: The equation calculates body mass index by comparing weight to the square of height.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's used to identify underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in inches (can include half inches like 65.5). All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why include half inches in height?
A: Including half inches provides more precise measurements, especially important for people near BMI category thresholds.

Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: Normal BMI is between 18.5-24.9. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q3: When should I measure my weight?
A: For consistent results, measure in the morning after using the bathroom and before eating, wearing minimal clothing.

Q4: Are there limitations to 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 children use this calculator?
A: No, children need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles. This calculator is for adults 20+ years.