BMI Result: 5ft 11in, 261 lbs (BMI 36.4) - Male

According to CDC and WHO standards, a BMI of 36.4 is classified as Obese.

Quick answer: A 5ft 11in male weighing 261 lbs has a BMI of 36.4, classified as Obese by CDC and WHO standards. The healthy weight range for this height is approximately 133–179 lbs.

A male who is 5ft 11in tall and weighs 261lbs has a BMI of 36.4, which falls into the Obese category used by the CDC and WHO for adults.

36.4
Obese
⚠️ BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic. It does not measure body fat directly. Learn more about how BMI is used.
Underweight Normal Overweight Obese
CategoryBMI Range
Underweight< 18.5
Obese ≥ 30
Obese≥ 30

Healthy weight range for 5ft 11in: 133 lbs – 179 lbs

Metric: 180.3 cm, 118.4 kg

📏 Healthy waist circumference for your height: 35" – 40" (below 40" for male)

So you're 5ft 11in and weigh 261lbs. Your BMI is 36.4, which falls into the Obese category according to CDC and WHO standards. Let's break down what this means for your health.

Adult BMI classification: CDC & WHO standard (effective 1998-present).

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Understanding Your BMI

A BMI of 30 or above indicates obesity. The CDC reports that this range is associated with a 50-60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive lifestyle intervention and medical guidance are strongly recommended.

Source: CDC Adult BMI Guidelines (2024)

What This Means for Your Height

For men of average height, BMI is a reliable screening tool. The CDC recommends keeping waist circumference below 40 inches to minimize health risks.

Weight & Threshold

Gaining approximately 25.8 lbs would bring your BMI to 40, the start of the next category.

⬇️ Losing approximately 45.9 lbs would bring you to the Overweight BMI threshold.

Waist & Health

The CDC recommends that men keep waist circumference below 40 inches. A waist-to-height ratio below 0.5 is also associated with lower health risks.

Source: CDC Adult BMI Guidelines (2024)

Age Context

At ages 18-19, BMI interpretation transitions. This age range sits between pediatric percentiles and adult fixed cutoffs. A 18-year-old man at 5ft 11in and 261lbs has a BMI of 36.4, which falls into the Obese category under adult CDC/WHO standards.

👉 For younger individuals, visit our Teen BMI Calculator.

👉 Check your Healthy Weight Range for more context.

Health Analysis

A BMI of 36.4 for a male with height 5ft 11in and weight 261lbs falls into the Obese category.

Recommendations

General Health

A BMI of 36.4 is in the obesity range defined by the CDC and WHO. This range is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Comprehensive lifestyle intervention and medical guidance are strongly recommended.

Monitoring

In addition to BMI, pay attention to waist circumference. The CDC recommends males stay under 40 inches. Regular tracking of your measurements over time provides the most useful insight into your health trends.

Next Steps

If you're concerned about your weight or body composition, a healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance based on your full health profile.

Personalized Notes

Goals

For a man at 5ft 11in, the CDC recommends a healthy weight range of 132-178lbs. At 261lbs, you're above this range. Working with a healthcare provider to set a safe weight loss goal is recommended.

Physical Activity

For a man at 5ft 11in, start slowly with walking and light resistance training. Gradually increase intensity as fitness improves. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I at a healthy weight at 5ft 11in and 261lbs?
At 5ft 11in and 261lbs, a man's BMI is 36.4, which is Obese. This falls into the CDC's obesity category (30+).
How does a BMI of 36.4 affect health for a 5ft 11in man?
At 5ft 11in with a BMI of 36.4 (Obese), the obesity range is associated with a 50-60% higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to overall well-being.
What else should I track besides BMI for a 5ft 11in man?
In addition to BMI, waist circumference and body composition give a clearer picture of health. For a man at 5ft 11in, keeping waist size below 40 inches is an important goal supported by CDC research.
How do I calculate my BMI at 5ft 11in and 261lbs?
BMI is calculated as weight (lbs) × 703 ÷ height (in)². For a 5ft 11in man at 261lbs, the calculation is 261 × 703 ÷ 71² = 36.4, which is Obese.

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Related Tools & Articles

💡 About this calculation: BMI = (261 × 703) ÷ (71 × 71) = 36.4 | Metric: 180.3 cm, 118.4 kg

📖 Recommended reading:

Based on CDC and WHO adult BMI standards. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.

Editorial Review: This page was generated by the BMI Calculator Web Editorial Team and reviewed at template and content-pool level for accuracy and guideline alignment by Dr. Sarah K. Johnson, PhD, RD. All content is aligned with current WHO, CDC, and NIH guidelines.

Published: 2026-09-03

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