Your body weight affects your health in many ways. However, too much emphasis on weight can also lead to unhealthy or unrealistic expectations. It's important to put the idea of a perfect weight in proper perspective. Set your weight goal based on a healthy range for your size rather than focusing on one ideal number on the scale. When setting your weight goals, focus on improving your health and fitness level by adopting good eating habits and living a more active lifestyle.
Significance
A healthy weight range is associated with decreased risk for chronic diseases, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The body mass index, or BMI, estimates body fat percentage based on weight and height and identifies weight ranges for underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity. A BMI score of 19 to 24.9 indicates a healthy body weight.
Identification
The body mass index helps you assess your current weight and health risks, as well as set healthy weight goals. Refer to the BMI table provided by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute to identify your current BMI and your healthy weight range. Body weights corresponding to a BMI of 19 to 24.9 are considered normal weight ranges for your height.
Factors
To identify the ideal weight for your body size, consider both your well-being and your preferences. Based on BMI, your range of healthy body weight can vary as much as 30 to 40 pounds. For example, the healthy weight range for someone five feet six inches tall is 118 to 155 pounds. If your weight falls in the upper healthy range, you can choose a weight target in the lower healthy range.
Benefits
After you identify a healthy weight, commit to a balanced eating and exercise plan to help you achieve your goal. Losing just 5 percent of your body weight can improve blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight also leads to improvements in mood, energy level and self-confidence.
Considerations
Regular exercise improves muscle tone and helps you maintain muscle mass as you age. Even if your weight is in the healthy range, exercise can help you shape up and get stronger. Physical activity benefits your health and plays a significant role in maintaining weight loss. The CDC recommends a minimum of 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week in addition to two muscle-strengthening workouts.
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