The amount a person should weigh depends primarily on their height, age, sex, body composition, and overall health. A commonly used guideline is the Body Mass Index (BMI), which calculates weight relative to height. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a healthy BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 indicates overweight, and 30 or above indicates obesity
. For example, for adults:
- A woman who is 5'4" (162.5 cm) typically has a healthy weight range of about 108 to 145 pounds (49 to 66 kg).
- A man who is 6'0" (183 cm) typically has a healthy weight range of about 137 to 183 pounds (62 to 83 kg)
More detailed tables show specific weight ranges based on height:
Height| Normal Weight Range| Overweight Range| Obese Range
---|---|---|---
5'0"| 97 to 127 lbs| 128 to 152 lbs| 153 to 199 lbs
5'5"| 114 to 149 lbs| 150 to 179 lbs| 180 to 234 lbs
6'2"| 148 to 193 lbs| 194 to 232 lbs| 233 to 303 lbs
(Source: National Institutes of Health)
However, BMI does not account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution, so it is not a perfect measure. Health professionals now consider other factors such as body fat percentage, waist circumference, age, and any weight-related health conditions to determine an individual's ideal weight
. In summary, a healthy weight is typically defined by a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9, but individual factors must be considered. For precise guidance, consulting a healthcare provider who can evaluate your personal health profile is recommended.
