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:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It helps assess health risks associated with weight.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight or fail to detect excess fat in older people with muscle loss.

Q3: Is BMI different for men and women?
A: The calculation is the same, but interpretation may vary slightly as women typically have higher body fat percentages at the same BMI.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range for men?
A: Generally 18.5 to 24.9, though individual factors like muscle mass should be considered.

Q5: Should athletes use BMI?
A: Athletes with high muscle mass may need additional assessments as BMI may classify them as overweight despite having low body fat.