1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, 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 (kg)
• \( Height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category - underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It correlates fairly well with body fat in most people.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. 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: For adults: 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 doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/sex differences.

Q3: Is BMI different for men and women?
A: The calculation is the same, but interpretation may differ slightly as women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q4: Can BMI be used for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and others with muscular builds, as muscle weighs more than fat.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific percentiles rather than the adult categories.