1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. 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 pounds (lbs)
• \( height \) — Height in inches
• \( 703 \) — Conversion factor (kg/m² to lbs/in²)

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of height squared, providing a standardized measure of body composition.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is widely used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. While not a direct measure of body fat, it correlates with more direct measures of body fat and provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in inches. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For most accurate results, measure height without shoes and weight in light clothing.

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), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with muscular builds, and underestimate body fat in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass, doesn't account for fat distribution, and may not be accurate for certain ethnic groups or elderly individuals.

Q5: What should I do if my BMI is high?
A: Consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your overall health and risk factors, and may recommend additional tests or lifestyle changes.