For example, an athlete may weigh more than someone of the same height but still be healthier because much of their weight comes from muscle rather than fat.
This is why body composition matters more than the number on the scale.
5. Body Frame
People have different body frames:
- Small frame
- Medium frame
- Large frame
Someone with a larger frame naturally weighs more than someone with a smaller frame, even if both are healthy.
How Is Ideal Weight Calculated?
The most common method is the Body Mass Index (BMI).
BMI compares your weight with your height to estimate whether your weight falls within a healthy range.
The formula is:
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)
BMI Categories
| BMI | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5–24.9 | Healthy Weight |
| 25.0–29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and above | Obesity |
Although BMI is widely used, it has limitations because it does not distinguish between muscle and fat.
Why BMI Isn’t Always Accurate
BMI works well for most adults, but it may not accurately reflect health in every case.