Question 1

What does BMI measure?

Accepted Answer

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple metric relating body weight to height squared (kg ÷ m²). It serves as a screening tool for overweight or underweight, but is not a direct measure of body fat or health.

Question 2

What is a normal BMI?

Accepted Answer

According to WHO: under 18.5 = underweight, 18.5–24.9 = normal weight, 25.0–29.9 = overweight, 30+ = obesity. Slightly adjusted ranges apply for adults over 65.

Question 3

Why is BMI inaccurate for athletes?

Accepted Answer

BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass. A bodybuilder at 100 kg and 1.80 m has BMI 30.9 – despite having under 10% body fat. For athletes, body fat percentage or waist circumference are better metrics.

Question 4

What are better alternatives to BMI?

Accepted Answer

Waist circumference (healthy: under 80 cm for women, under 94 cm for men), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and body fat percentage via bioimpedance or DEXA scan are more accurate health indicators.

Body Mass Index (BMI): Normal Values, Formula & Limitations