BMI Chart for Men by Age

While the standard BMI formula applies the same thresholds to all adults, research suggests that recommended BMI ranges may shift slightly as men age. As muscle mass naturally declines and bone density changes, older men may benefit from a marginally higher BMI. The table below summarizes the generally recommended BMI ranges for men at different life stages, based on data from the CDC, the World Health Organization, and peer-reviewed longevity studies. For a comprehensive breakdown, see our complete BMI guide for men.

Age Group	Recommended BMI Range	Classification	Notes
18 - 24	18.5 - 24.9	Normal	Peak muscle-building years; BMI may overestimate fat in active young men
25 - 34	18.5 - 24.9	Normal	Standard healthy range; metabolism begins to slow in late 20s
35 - 44	18.5 - 24.9	Normal	Testosterone begins declining ~1% per year; monitor waist circumference
45 - 54	22 - 27	Adjusted	Slightly higher range may be protective; very low BMI linked to higher mortality
55 - 64	22 - 27	Adjusted	Sarcopenia (muscle loss) accelerates; strength training is essential
65+	23 - 28	Adjusted	Higher BMI may protect against frailty and osteoporosis; consult your doctor

For a more detailed breakdown of how BMI interacts with age, see our BMI Calculator by Age or read the full guide on BMI by age.

BMI Distribution Among U.S. Adult Men

According to CDC data, the majority of American men fall into the overweight or obese categories. This chart shows the approximate distribution of BMI categories among adult men in the United States. Understanding where you fall can help contextualize your BMI category relative to the general population.

Underweight

2%

Normal Weight

24%

Overweight

31%

Obese

43%

Source: CDC National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Learn more about the healthy BMI range and what these categories mean for your health.

Healthy Weight Chart for Men by Height

The table below shows the healthy weight range for men at common heights, based on a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Use this as a quick reference alongside the calculator above. For a more personalized result, try our Ideal Weight Calculator which uses multiple clinical formulas including the Devine, Robinson, Miller, and Hamwi methods.

Height	Height (cm)	Min Healthy Weight	Max Healthy Weight
5'4" (64 in)	163 cm	110 lbs (50 kg)	149 lbs (68 kg)
5'5" (65 in)	165 cm	114 lbs (52 kg)	153 lbs (69 kg)
5'6" (66 in)	168 cm	118 lbs (54 kg)	159 lbs (72 kg)
5'7" (67 in)	170 cm	121 lbs (55 kg)	163 lbs (74 kg)
5'8" (68 in)	173 cm	125 lbs (57 kg)	168 lbs (76 kg)
5'9" (69 in)	175 cm	128 lbs (58 kg)	173 lbs (78 kg)
5'10" (70 in)	178 cm	132 lbs (60 kg)	177 lbs (80 kg)
5'11" (71 in)	180 cm	136 lbs (62 kg)	182 lbs (83 kg)
6'0" (72 in)	183 cm	140 lbs (64 kg)	188 lbs (85 kg)
6'1" (73 in)	185 cm	144 lbs (65 kg)	193 lbs (88 kg)
6'2" (74 in)	188 cm	148 lbs (67 kg)	199 lbs (90 kg)
6'3" (75 in)	191 cm	152 lbs (69 kg)	204 lbs (93 kg)
6'4" (76 in)	193 cm	156 lbs (71 kg)	210 lbs (95 kg)

These ranges are calculated using the BMI formula: weight (kg) / height (m)². For a deeper analysis, check the complete BMI chart for men or use our Lean Body Mass Calculator to estimate your fat-free mass.

Why BMI Can Be Misleading for Men

BMI is a useful population-level screening tool, but it has well-documented limitations that affect men disproportionately, as acknowledged by the World Health Organization. Understanding these shortcomings helps you interpret your result more accurately. Here is a detailed look at the five key reasons why BMI can be misleading for men.

1. Men Naturally Have More Muscle Mass

On average, men carry 10-15 pounds more skeletal muscle than women of the same height. Testosterone drives this difference from puberty onward. Because BMI only measures total body weight relative to height, it cannot distinguish between lean mass and fat mass. A man with well-developed musculature may register as "overweight" on the BMI scale despite having a low body fat percentage. Our guide on muscle mass and BMI explores this relationship in depth.

2. Athletes and Bodybuilders Classified as "Overweight"

Professional athletes, weightlifters, football players, and recreational bodybuilders frequently have BMIs between 25 and 30 while maintaining body fat percentages in the 8-15% range. BMI does not account for frame size, bone density, or muscle distribution. Read more about why this happens in our BMI for athletes guide, and consider using the Lean Body Mass Calculator for a more complete picture. Our muscle mass and BMI article provides additional context for strength-trained men.

3. Visceral Fat Distribution (Apple Shape)

Men are biologically predisposed to store excess fat viscerally -- around the abdominal organs rather than subcutaneously under the skin. This "apple-shaped" fat distribution is more metabolically dangerous than the "pear-shaped" pattern common in women. Two men with the same BMI can have vastly different health risk profiles based on where their fat is located. This is why the waist-to-height ratio is considered a superior predictor of cardiovascular risk for men. Learn more about BMI and health risks.

4. Testosterone's Role in Body Composition

Testosterone is the primary driver of male body composition. Higher testosterone levels promote muscle protein synthesis, increase bone mineral density, and reduce fat storage. As men age and testosterone declines (typically 1-2% per year after age 30), they tend to lose muscle and accumulate fat even if their weight -- and BMI -- stays the same. This means the same BMI number can represent very different body compositions at age 25 vs. age 55. Our BMI and metabolism article covers this topic in detail.

5. Why Waist Circumference Matters More for Men

Given the limitations above, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommends that men combine BMI with waist circumference measurements. A waist measurement over 40 inches (102 cm) indicates increased disease risk regardless of BMI. For a more accurate assessment, combine your BMI result with our waist-related measurements or explore the BMI vs. body composition guide.

Body Fat Percentage vs BMI for Men

While BMI estimates whether your overall weight is in a healthy range, body fat percentage measures the actual proportion of your body that is fat tissue. For men, this distinction is especially important because of the higher baseline muscle mass, as noted by Harvard Health. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) defines the following body fat percentage categories for men. For a deeper comparison, read our body fat vs. BMI guide:

Category	Body Fat %	Description
Essential Fat	2 - 5%	Minimum required for basic physiological function. Sustained levels this low are dangerous.
Athletes	6 - 13%	Competitive athletes, bodybuilders in off-season. Visible muscle definition.
Fitness	14 - 17%	Recreational exercisers and active men. Good health markers with some visible definition.
Average	18 - 24%	Typical range for adult men. Acceptable health but higher disease risk at the upper end.
Obese	25%+	Significantly elevated risk for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Body fat percentage can be measured through methods like DEXA scans, hydrostatic weighing, bioelectrical impedance, or skinfold calipers. While these are more accurate than BMI alone, they are also less accessible. The Mayo Clinic recommends combining BMI with waist circumference for a practical balance of accuracy and convenience. Estimate your fat-free mass with the Lean Body Mass Calculator.

18.5-24.9

Healthy BMI Range

Standard for all adults

14-17%

Fitness Body Fat

Ideal for active men

<40 in

Waist Target

Lower disease risk

These benchmarks come from NIH NHLBI guidelines. For personalized targets based on your build, see our BMI chart for men.

Waist Circumference Guidelines for Men

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the CDC, waist circumference is one of the most important complementary measurements to BMI for assessing health risk in men. The American Heart Association also emphasizes this metric in their cardiovascular health guidelines.

40+ inches

High Risk (102+ cm)

Significantly elevated risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Action recommended.

Under 40 in

Lower Risk (<102 cm)

Waist circumference within recommended range. Continue maintaining through diet and exercise.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio for Men

The waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) divides your waist measurement by your hip measurement. For men, a WHR above 0.90 is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. A ratio below 0.90 is considered healthy. This metric is especially useful for men who carry weight around their midsection. Our waist-to-height ratio guide explores related measurements in more detail.

How to Measure Your Waist Correctly

Stand upright and breathe out normally. Do not suck in your stomach.
Place a flexible measuring tape around your bare abdomen, just above the hip bone (at the level of your navel).
The tape should be snug but not compressing the skin.
Read the measurement at the end of a normal exhale.
Record the measurement to the nearest half inch or centimeter.

For best results, measure at the same time of day (preferably morning) and under consistent conditions. Track your waist circumference alongside your BMI over time using our BMI tracking guide.

Health Risks for Men by BMI Category

BMI provides a general framework for understanding weight-related health risks. While it is not a diagnostic tool, research consistently shows correlations between BMI category and the likelihood of developing certain conditions, according to the NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Men face some gender-specific risks that are worth understanding. For a comprehensive overview, see our BMI and health risks guide.

Cardiovascular Disease

Men with a BMI over 25 have a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, and stroke. Visceral fat -- common in men -- surrounds the heart and major blood vessels, contributing to arterial plaque buildup. The American Heart Association notes that even modest weight loss of 5-10% can meaningfully reduce cardiovascular risk.

Type 2 Diabetes

Excess body weight is the single strongest risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Men with a BMI over 30 are approximately 7 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared to men with a BMI under 25. Abdominal fat is particularly problematic because it increases insulin resistance. The CDC recommends regular BMI screening as part of diabetes prevention.

Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects men at roughly twice the rate of women. A BMI over 30 is one of the strongest predictors of OSA, and men with neck circumferences over 17 inches are at particularly high risk. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and daytime fatigue. The Mayo Clinic lists sleep apnea as a major complication of obesity.

Joint Problems and Osteoarthritis

Every extra pound of body weight adds approximately 4 pounds of pressure on the knee joints. Men with a BMI over 30 are at significantly higher risk for osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees, hips, and lower back. Active men who carry excess weight put even more strain on joints during exercise. Read more about the risks of being overweight.

Low Testosterone at High BMI

Research shows a strong inverse relationship between BMI and testosterone levels in men. Excess body fat -- particularly visceral fat -- converts testosterone to estrogen through the aromatase enzyme. Men with a BMI over 30 are up to 2.4 times more likely to have low testosterone (hypogonadism) compared to men with a BMI under 25. Low testosterone can further promote fat storage and muscle loss, creating a negative feedback loop. This is discussed in detail by Harvard Health.

For men on the other end of the spectrum, being underweight (BMI under 18.5) also carries health risks including weakened immunity, bone density loss, and nutritional deficiencies. The goal should be to maintain a BMI and body composition that supports overall metabolic health. Understanding the different BMI categories helps you set appropriate health targets.

BMI and Muscle Mass: Guidance for Athletic Men

If you are an athletic or muscular man, your BMI result may not accurately reflect your health status. This is one of the most commonly cited BMI accuracy concerns, widely discussed in sports medicine literature. Here is what you should know and what supplementary metrics to use. Our detailed BMI for athletes guide explores this topic further.

When BMI Applies

Sedentary or lightly active men
General population health screening
Tracking weight trends over time
Insurance and clinical assessments
Men without significant strength training history

When BMI May Not Apply

Competitive or recreational bodybuilders
Football, rugby, and contact sport athletes
Men who strength train 4+ days per week
Men with naturally large frames and broad shoulders
Former athletes with residual muscle mass

Supplementary Metrics for Athletic Men

If your BMI seems inflated due to muscle mass, consider these additional measurements for a more accurate health assessment:

Waist circumference: Should remain under 40 inches (102 cm) regardless of BMI or muscle mass.
Waist-to-height ratio: Should ideally be below 0.5. See our waist-to-height ratio guide.
Body fat percentage: Measured via DEXA scan, hydrostatic weighing, or quality bioimpedance scales.
Lean body mass: Calculate using our Lean Body Mass Calculator.
Blood markers: Fasting glucose, HbA1c, lipid panel, blood pressure, and testosterone levels tell you what BMI cannot.
Ideal weight formulas: The Ideal Weight Calculator uses multiple clinical formulas that can provide an alternative perspective.

The bottom line is that BMI remains a useful first-pass screening tool, but muscular men should never rely on it alone. For a deeper dive, read our BMI for athletes, muscle mass and BMI, and body fat vs. BMI articles.

When to See a Doctor: BMI Guidelines for Men

While this calculator can help you monitor your weight status, there are specific situations where men should seek professional medical advice rather than relying on online tools alone.

Consult your healthcare provider if:

Your BMI is 30 or higher (obese category) -- discuss weight management strategies and health screening
Your BMI is under 18.5 (underweight) -- investigate potential causes such as thyroid issues, malabsorption, or eating disorders
Your waist circumference exceeds 40 inches (102 cm) even if your BMI is in the normal range
You have a family history of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or stroke
You are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone such as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, low libido, or depression
You notice rapid, unexplained weight gain or loss (more than 5% of body weight in a month)
You have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or prediabetes
You experience sleep apnea symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping during sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness
You are over 45 years old and have not had a comprehensive metabolic health assessment recently
You are planning to start a significant new exercise or weight loss program

Your doctor can order blood tests, measure body composition more precisely, assess cardiovascular health, and check hormone levels -- all things a BMI calculator cannot do. BMI is a starting point, not a conclusion. For evidence-based guidance on how to lower your BMI or improve your BMI, explore our guides. The Mayo Clinic and American Heart Association also provide excellent men's health resources. Learn more about your healthy BMI range and what it means for long-term wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

BMI can be misleading for muscular men. Since muscle is denser than fat, men with significant muscle mass may have a high BMI despite having low body fat. Studies have found that BMI misclassifies up to 25% of men as overweight or obese when their body fat percentage is actually in the healthy range. If you are muscular, consider supplementing BMI with waist circumference, body fat percentage (measured via DEXA or calipers), or the Lean Body Mass Calculator. Read our full guide on BMI for athletes for detailed recommendations.

The healthy BMI range for men is 18.5 to 24.9, as defined by the World Health Organization and the CDC. Some research suggests that a BMI of 22-25 may be associated with the lowest mortality risk for men. Men over 65 may benefit from a slightly higher BMI (up to 27-28) as this can protect against frailty and bone loss. Use our BMI Calculator by Age for age-adjusted recommendations, or see the healthy BMI range guide for a full breakdown of all categories.

Men tend to store fat around the abdomen (visceral fat), which is more strongly linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome than subcutaneous fat stored in other areas. A waist circumference over 40 inches (102 cm) indicates elevated health risk, regardless of BMI. The NHLBI recommends measuring waist circumference as a standard part of health assessments for men. Even men with a "normal" BMI can be at elevated risk if their waist measurement is too high. See our waist-to-height ratio guide for additional metrics.

The BMI formula itself does not change, but body composition shifts significantly with age. Men tend to lose muscle mass (sarcopenia) and gain fat as they age. This means a BMI in the "normal" range at age 60 may actually represent more body fat than the same BMI at age 25. Additionally, research suggests that older men (65+) may have the lowest mortality risk at a BMI of 23-28, slightly higher than the standard 18.5-24.9 range. Regular strength training helps maintain muscle mass and can keep your body composition healthier at any age. Our BMI by age article covers this topic comprehensively.

Cardiovascular disease risk begins to increase at a BMI of 25 (overweight category) and rises steeply at a BMI of 30 or above. According to the American Heart Association, men with a BMI over 30 have a 28% higher risk of heart disease compared to men in the normal BMI range. However, waist circumference is an even stronger predictor -- men with a waist over 40 inches face elevated cardiovascular risk even with a normal BMI. For a detailed breakdown of risks at each category, see our BMI categories explained guide.

Yes, there is a strong inverse relationship between BMI and testosterone. Excess body fat -- especially visceral abdominal fat -- increases aromatase enzyme activity, which converts testosterone to estrogen. Men with a BMI over 30 are approximately 2.4 times more likely to have clinically low testosterone compared to men with a normal BMI. This creates a negative feedback loop: low testosterone promotes fat gain and muscle loss, which further raises BMI and lowers testosterone. Weight loss has been shown to significantly increase testosterone levels. Harvard Health provides more information on this relationship.

Ideally, both. BMI is free, simple, and universally understood -- making it excellent for initial screening and long-term tracking. Body fat percentage is more accurate but requires special equipment (DEXA scan, hydrostatic weighing, or quality bioimpedance scales). For most men, tracking BMI alongside waist circumference provides a practical, low-cost approach. If you strength train regularly and your BMI seems high due to muscle mass, body fat percentage becomes more important. Our body fat vs. BMI comparison breaks down the pros and cons of each approach, and the Lean Body Mass Calculator can help estimate your fat-free mass.

According to CDC data, the average BMI for adult American men is approximately 29.1, which falls in the overweight category (BMI 25-29.9) and is very close to the obesity threshold of 30. Approximately 43% of American men are classified as obese (BMI 30+) and an additional 31% are classified as overweight (BMI 25-29.9). This means roughly 74% of American men are above the recommended healthy BMI range. These statistics underscore why regular monitoring with tools like this BMI calculator for men is important. For population-level insights, see the BMI categories overview.

BMI uses the same formula for men and women: weight (kg) divided by height (m) squared. In imperial units, the formula is weight (lbs) x 703 / height (inches) squared. The interpretation thresholds are also the same: under 18.5 is underweight, 18.5-24.9 is normal, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese. However, because men typically have more muscle mass and different fat distribution patterns than women, the health implications of a given BMI may differ between sexes. For a full explanation, see our BMI formula guide or try the standard BMI calculator.

Yes. Multiple studies have demonstrated that weight loss -- particularly the reduction of visceral fat -- leads to meaningful increases in testosterone levels. One large meta-analysis found that weight loss through caloric restriction alone increased testosterone by approximately 2.9 nmol/L in men who were overweight or obese. Combining diet with resistance training produces even greater improvements because muscle tissue itself supports healthy testosterone production. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can produce noticeable hormonal improvements. For practical strategies, see our guides on how to lower BMI and healthy weight tips.

Other Calculators

Standard

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Men's BMI Guide

BMI Calculator for Men