1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = (weight in pounds × 703) / (height in inches)². It provides a numeric value that helps categorize weight status.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula for imperial units:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in pounds (lbs)
• \( height \) — Height in inches
• \( 703 \) — Conversion factor for imperial units

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 a quick screening tool to identify possible weight problems in adults. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown BMI correlates with direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in pounds and height in inches. For accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing. 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), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q4: Can children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles.

Q5: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/ethnic differences.