1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It is a simple index that helps categorize individuals into different weight status categories.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula for kg and feet:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Weight in kilograms
• \( height_{ft} \) — Height in feet
• 703 — Conversion factor
• 30.48 — Feet to centimeters conversion factor

Explanation: This formula converts height from feet to inches and applies the standard BMI calculation with appropriate conversion factors for metric inputs.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is widely used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. It helps assess health risks associated with being underweight, overweight, or obese.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in feet. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). The calculator will provide your BMI and corresponding weight status category.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes with high muscle mass, pregnant women, children, and the elderly as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat.

Q3: Why use this specific formula?
A: This formula is specifically designed for calculating BMI using weight in kilograms and height in feet, with proper conversion factors.

Q4: Can BMI be used for children?
A: No, BMI calculations for children use age and gender percentiles rather than fixed categories.

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