How Much Should You Weigh?
Weight tables and formulas can help you find a healthy weight for you. Most of these give average weight ranges for people of your height. But other factors to consider include your body frame, your overall health, and perhaps most importantly, at what weight you feel best. |
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Using Body Mass Index (BMI)
Using BMI is a way of finding healthy weight. The higher your BMI, the greater your risk of obesity and health problems. To figure your BMI, find your height and weight (or the numbers closest to them) on the chart above. Follow each column of numbers to where your height and weight meet on the chart. That is your BMI. Then look at the bottom of the chart for what this BMI means. |
Using Body Weight Distribution
Where you carry body fat affects your health risk. Some people are apple-shaped, with more fat around the waist and stomach. Others are pear-shaped, with more fat on the hips and buttocks. Extra weight may be less of a health issue for "pears." If you can't tell which you are by looking in a mirror, you can use your waist-to-hip ratio to find out:
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- Measure your waist at its smallest point and your hips at their largest point.
- Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. For a healthy weight, the number for most women should be below 0.80; for men, below 0.95.
Example: If your waist = 28 inches and hips = 38 inches, your waist-to-hip ratio is 28 รท 38 = 0.73.
A Health Evaluation
A health evaluation is recommended before beginning a weight management plan. This is particularly true if you're a smoker, inactive, or have an ongoing medical problem. Your doctor, dietitian, or exercise physiologist can help you set up a safe weight management plan.
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