Average Weight For Men

Average Weight For Men: up, up, and away

The average weight for men presently is heavier than men’s average weight 40 years ago. This may be, in part, due to the fact that people now are taller than they were in the 1960s.

Presently, a modern American man’s average weight is almost 191 pounds. Of course, the average height now is 5 feet and 9 inches (1.77 meters). The average weight distribution in types of tissues is 43% muscle, 14% fat, 14% bone and bone marrow, 12% internal organs, 9% connective tissue and skin, and 8% blood. The average weight distribution in body parts is 47% trunk and neck, 34% legs, 12% arms, and 7% head.

People, both men and women, gained approximately 25 pounds between the 1960s and 2002 according to a CDC report. It identified trends in national estimates of average weight, height, and body mass index (BMI). The data was supplied by the National Health Examination and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted between 1960 and 2002.

Although adult men are about 1 inch taller today than in the early ‘60s, it is not enough to explain the extra weight. Height and weight are factored into BMI. The CDC said BMI trends confirm that Americans became heftier over the last four decades. Between the early 1960s and 2002, the mean BMI for men aged 20 to 74 years old increased from just 25 to almost 28. That current number is considered overweight but not obese. A BMI of less than 18.5 is underweight; 18.5 to 24.9 are normal; 25 to 29.9 are overweight; and a BMI of 30 or higher are obese.

The CDC report does not take in hand the reasons why the average weight of Americans has increased. It only presented cold, hard numbers without pointing a finger at specific diets, exercise habits, or lifestyles. There are many health care providers who are more than capable in getting you started on a sensible food and fitness program if you are motivated enough to buck the national trend on the average weight for men.

All information on this webpage is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem – nor is it intended to replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner, health practitioner, or fitness professional. No action should be taken solely on the contents of this website. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health or on any opinions expressed within this website.