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 calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• Weight — Measured in kilograms (kg)
• Height — Measured 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-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems. For military personnel, maintaining a healthy BMI is often a requirement for service.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For height, you can convert from cm to m by dividing by 100 (e.g., 175 cm = 1.75 m).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Are there different BMI standards for military personnel?
A: Yes, many armed forces have stricter BMI requirements than the general population standards.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so very muscular individuals may have a high BMI without excess fat.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most people, checking every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q5: What's the ideal BMI for military personnel?
A: This varies by country and branch of service, but typically falls within the normal weight range (18.5-24.9).