Body Mass Index Formula Example

BMI Formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight}{height^2} \]

Body Mass Index (BMI):

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1. What is Body Mass Index?

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 and widely used screening tool for weight categories.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight}{height^2} \]

Where:

\( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
\( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Example: For a person weighing 70 kg with height 1.75 m:
\( BMI = 70 / (1.75)^2 = 22.86 \) kg/m²

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a quick assessment of weight status and helps identify potential health risks associated with underweight, overweight, or obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. Ensure values are accurate for reliable results. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not accurately reflect body fat in athletes, elderly, or those with high muscle mass as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat.

Q3: Can BMI be used for children?
A: BMI calculations for children use age and gender percentiles rather than fixed categories.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be used alongside other measurements like waist circumference, body fat percentage, and overall health assessment.