1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, 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 standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of height squared to estimate body fatness and categorize weight status.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a simple numeric measure that helps healthcare professionals identify potential weight problems in adults. While not a direct measure of body fat, it correlates with more direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most accurate results, measure weight in the morning before eating and after using the bathroom. Measure height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI different for men and women?
A: The same BMI ranges apply to both men and women, though body composition differs between genders at the same BMI.

Q3: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so muscular individuals may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass. Additional measurements like body fat percentage may be needed.

Q5: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every 6-12 months is sufficient unless actively trying to change weight.