Healthy Weight Range by Height — What Should You Actually Weigh?

How Healthy Weight Ranges Are Determined

The most common method uses your BMI to calculate a weight range. Since a healthy BMI is 18.5-24.9, your healthy weight range is the weight that puts you in that BMI zone. For a person 5'9" (175 cm): healthy weight range is approximately 125-169 lbs (56.7-76.7 kg). The range is wide because body composition varies — the lower end works for someone with less muscle mass, while the upper end works for someone more muscular.

Ideal Weight Formulas Compared

Why Ideal Weight Is a Range, Not a Number

The concept of a single ideal weight is misleading. Your healthy weight depends on your frame size, muscle mass, bone density, and body fat distribution. A muscular athlete might be at their healthiest at the top of the BMI range, while someone with less muscle mass might be healthiest in the middle. The best approach is to use the BMI-based healthy weight range as a guideline, then adjust based on how you feel, your energy levels, and your blood work results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal weight for a 5'6" woman?

The healthy BMI range (18.5-24.9) for 5'6" (66 inches) gives a range of 115-154 lbs. Different formulas give different ideals: Devine formula says 125 lbs, Hamwi says 129 lbs. The right weight for you depends on your body composition, frame size, and personal health goals.

How much should a 5'10" man weigh?

The healthy BMI range for 5'10" gives a range of 129-173 lbs. Devine formula: 166 lbs. Hamwi: 178 lbs. Our ideal weight calculator shows results from multiple formulas so you can see the range and find what is realistic for your body type.