There are a few different methods of determining normal weight ranges for men. The first involves the actual pounds based on a man's height, known as ideal body weight. The second is body mass index, which also uses a man's height to establish whether or not he's carrying a normal amount of weight. The third is something called body fat percentage. This estimates the percentage of fat in a man's body.
Ideal Body Weight
According to the National Institutes of Health, a man's ideal body weight is established by taking the first 5 feet of a man's height, which is valued at 106 lbs, and then adding 6 lbs to this number for each inch over 5 feet. Multiply this base value by 10 percent, and then subtract this number from the base value to establish the low end of the normal weight range for those men with a smaller body frame. Multiply the base value times 10 percent and add the result to the base value to establish the high end of the normal weight range for those men who are of a larger body frame.
For example, a man who is 6 feet tall has a normal weight range of 160 to 196 lbs, estimates Rush University Medical Center. A man who is 5-feet, 11-inches tall has a normal weight range of 155 to 189 lbs. The low end of either weight ranges accounts for men with smaller body frames, while the high end of the weight ranges accounts for men with larger body frames.
Body Mass Index
Men can also use body mass index, or BMI, to determine if they fall within a healthy weight range for their height. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that body mass index is calculated by squaring your height in inches, (multiplying your height by your height), and then dividing this number into your weight in pounds. This value is then multiplied by 703 to establish BMI. A healthy range for men is anywhere between 18.5 and 24.9.
For example, a man who is 6 feet tall and weighs 160 lbs has a BMI of 21.6, which is considered normal for his height. A man who is 6 feet tall and weighs 178 lbs has a BMI of 24.1, which is also considered normal for his height. A man who's 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 155 lbs has a BMI of 21.6. Like the other two examples, this is normal for his height.
Body Fat Percentage
You can also use body fat percentages to establish healthy weight, notes SoftSpecialist.com. Normal weight ranges vary depending on your age. For men under the age of 40, you need a body fat somewhere between 8 percent and 19 percent to be considered healthy. This percentage increases for 41- to 60-year-olds, coming in at 11 percent to 22 percent. Men older than 60 need 13 percent to 25 percent body fat to be considered healthy.
Unlike ideal body weight and body mass index, body fat isn't something you can calculate on your own. Measurements that account for skinfold, waist and hip-to-waist ratio are needed to come up with this percentage, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A fitness professional, doctor or dietitian can all take these measurements to calculate your percentage of body fat.
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