How Much Should I Weigh?
The NHS/WHO uses Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess whether an adult's weight falls in a healthy range. A healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. The table below shows the healthy weight range for every common UK adult height in kilograms, stone and pounds, and pounds. No calculation is needed - find your height row and read your range directly.
BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. It is a population-level screening tool, not a personal diagnosis. Your GP uses BMI alongside other factors including waist circumference, blood pressure, and medical history when assessing your overall health picture.
NHS/WHO Healthy Weight Table - All Heights
Healthy weight range = BMI 18.5 to 24.9. All values calibrated to clinical standards.
| Height | Min Healthy (kg) | Max Healthy (kg) | Min (stone) | Max (stone) | Min (lbs) | Max (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5ft 0in (152cm) | 42.7 | 57.5 | 6st 10lb | 9st 1lb | 94.1 | 126.8 |
| 5ft 2in (157cm) | 45.6 | 61.4 | 7st 3lb | 9st 9lb | 100.5 | 135.4 |
| 5ft 4in (163cm) | 49.2 | 66.2 | 7st 10lb | 10st 6lb | 108.5 | 145.9 |
| 5ft 6in (168cm) UK avg | 52.2 | 70.3 | 8st 3lb | 11st 1lb | 115.1 | 155.0 |
| 5ft 8in (173cm) | 55.4 | 74.5 | 8st 10lb | 11st 10lb | 122.1 | 164.2 |
| 5ft 10in (178cm) | 58.6 | 78.9 | 9st 3lb | 12st 6lb | 129.2 | 173.9 |
| 6ft 0in (183cm) | 62.0 | 83.4 | 9st 11lb | 13st 2lb | 136.7 | 183.9 |
| 6ft 2in (188cm) | 65.4 | 88.0 | 10st 4lb | 13st 12lb | 144.2 | 194.0 |
BMI Calculation
BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kg by height in metres squared.
Example: 70 kg ÷ (1.70m × 1.70m) = 24.2 (Healthy Range).
Quick BMI Categories
- Underweight: below 18.5
- Healthy: 18.5 – 24.9
- Overweight: 25.0 – 29.9
- Obese: 30.0 or above
Medical Context & Limitations
BMI does not measure body fat directly. A very muscular person may have a high BMI while having a low body fat percentage. Older adults may carry more fat and less muscle than a younger adult at the same reading.
The NHS/WHO notes that BMI thresholds are lower for people from South Asian, Chinese, Black African, African-Caribbean, and other minority ethnic groups, where health risks can occur at a lower BMI.
Dr Muhammad Usman, MBBS
Content reviewed to current clinical guidelines. Your GP is the best person to discuss your individual health situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I weigh for my height?
Use the NHS/WHO healthy weight table below. Find your height row and read the minimum and maximum. At 5ft 6in the healthy range is 52.2 kg to 70.3 kg (8 stone 3 lb to 11 stone 1 lb).
What is a healthy BMI?
The NHS/WHO defines a healthy BMI as 18.5 to 24.9 for adults. Below 18.5 is underweight. Between 25.0 and 29.9 is overweight. A BMI of 30 or above is obese.
What is the ideal weight for a woman?
A healthy weight depends on height. At 5ft 4in the healthy range is 49.2 kg to 66.2 kg (7 stone 10 lb to 10 stone 6 lb). At 5ft 6in it is 52.2 kg to 70.3 kg (8 stone 3 lb to 11 stone 1 lb). Use the table below for your exact height.
What is the healthy weight for a man?
The same BMI formula and ranges apply to men and women. At 5ft 10in the healthy range is 58.6 kg to 78.9 kg (9 stone 3 lb to 12 stone 6 lb). At 6ft 0in it is 62.0 kg to 83.4 kg (9 stone 11 lb to 13 stone 2 lb).
What weight should I be at 5ft 6in?
At 5ft 6in the NHS/WHO healthy weight range is 52.2 kg to 70.3 kg, which is 8 stone 3 pounds to 11 stone 1 pound, or 115.1 lbs to 155.0 lbs.
Looking for a specific calculation?