Body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage are critical measurements for evaluating overall health and well-being. BMI, a metric calculated using height and weight, offers a general assessment of body mass, while body fat percentage provides specific insights into the proportion of fat mass compared to total body weight.
Understanding these measurements is essential for managing weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like obesity and heart disease, and maintaining optimal physical fitness. Historically, BMI was developed in the 19th century as a screening tool, but its use has since expanded to include broader health applications.