BMI Result: 5ft 6in, 172 lbs (BMI 27.8) - Male
According to CDC and WHO standards, a BMI of 27.8 is classified as Overweight.
A male who is 5ft 6in tall and weighs 172lbs has a BMI of 27.8, which falls into the Overweight category used by the CDC and WHO for adults.
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 |
| Overweight | 25 – 29.9 |
| Obese | ≥ 30 |
Healthy weight range for 5ft 6in: 115 lbs – 154 lbs
Metric: 167.6 cm, 78.0 kg
📏 Healthy waist circumference for your height: 35" – 40" (below 40" for male)
So you're 5ft 6in and weigh 172lbs. Your BMI is 27.8, which falls into the Overweight category according to CDC and WHO standards. Let's break down what this means for your health.
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Understanding Your BMI
A BMI in the 25-29.9 range indicates excess weight relative to height. According to CDC data, this range is associated with a 20-30% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
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 13.6 lbs would bring your BMI to 30, the start of the next category.
⬆️ Gaining approximately 13.6 lbs would put you in the Obese BMI range.
⬇️ Losing approximately 17.3 lbs would bring you to the Normal 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.
Age Context
For adults in early to middle adulthood (20-44), BMI is a reliable screening tool. At 28 years old, a man at 5ft 6in and 172lbs has a BMI of 27.8, which falls into the Overweight category according to CDC and WHO standards.
Your BMI falls into the overweight category. The CDC notes that even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can improve health markers.
👉 Check your Healthy Weight Range for more context.
👉 Measure your Body Fat Percentage for a more complete picture.
Health Analysis
Recommendations
General Health
A BMI of 27.8 is above the CDC and WHO healthy range of 18.5-24.9. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can improve health markers. Consider consulting a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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
Diet & Nutrition
At 5ft 6in and 172lbs, a BMI of 27.8 falls into the overweight category for men. Reducing processed foods and added sugars while increasing protein and fiber can help with weight management.
Monitoring
At 5ft 6in, monitor your waist circumference as an additional health indicator. For men at this height, the CDC recommends keeping waist circumference below 40 inches. Track your progress weekly with a scale and tape measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a 5ft 6in man maintain a healthy weight?
How do I calculate my BMI at 5ft 6in and 172lbs?
What percentage of men have a BMI of 27.8 at 5ft 6in?
Is 172lbs overweight for a 5ft 6in man?
Related Tools & Articles
💡 About this calculation: BMI = (172 × 703) ÷ (66 × 66) = 27.8 | Metric: 167.6 cm, 78.0 kg
📖 Recommended reading:
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: 2026-08-07