BMI Result: 5ft 8in, 185 lbs (BMI 28.1) - Female
According to CDC and WHO standards, a BMI of 28.1 is classified as Overweight.
A female who is 5ft 8in tall and weighs 185lbs has a BMI of 28.1, 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 8in: 122 lbs – 164 lbs
Metric: 172.7 cm, 83.9 kg
📏 Healthy waist circumference for your height: 30" – 35" (below 35" for female)
So you're 5ft 8in and weigh 185lbs. Your BMI is 28.1, which falls into the Overweight category according to CDC and WHO standards. Let's break down what this means for your health.
Adjust Your Numbers
Change your height or weight to see how your BMI changes.
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 women of average height, BMI is a reliable screening tool. Pair it with waist circumference for a more complete health picture.
Weight & Threshold
Gaining approximately 12.5 lbs would bring your BMI to 30, the start of the next category.
⬆️ Gaining approximately 12.5 lbs would put you in the Obese BMI range.
⬇️ Losing approximately 20.4 lbs would bring you to the Normal BMI threshold.
Waist & Health
The CDC recommends that non-pregnant women keep waist circumference below 35 inches. A waist-to-height ratio below 0.5 is also associated with lower health risks.
Age Context
At ages 18-19, BMI interpretation transitions. This age range sits between pediatric percentiles and adult fixed cutoffs. A 18-year-old woman at 5ft 8in and 185lbs has a BMI of 28.1, which falls into the Overweight category under adult CDC/WHO standards.
👉 For younger individuals, visit our Teen BMI Calculator.
👉 Check your Healthy Weight Range for more context.
Health Analysis
Recommendations
General Health
A BMI of 28.1 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 females stay under 35 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 woman at 5ft 8in, the CDC recommends a healthy weight range of 121-163lbs. At 185lbs, you're above this range. Setting a goal to lose 5-10% of your current weight can significantly improve health markers.
Diet & Nutrition
At 5ft 8in and 185lbs, a BMI of 28.1 falls into the overweight category for women. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can improve health markers. Consider replacing sugary drinks with water and adding a serving of vegetables to each meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate my BMI at 5ft 8in and 185lbs?
What health risks are associated with a BMI of 28.1 for a 5ft 8in woman?
How common is a BMI of 28.1 for a 5ft 8in woman?
Am I at a healthy weight at 5ft 8in and 185lbs?
Related Tools & Articles
💡 About this calculation: BMI = (185 × 703) ÷ (68 × 68) = 28.1 | Metric: 172.7 cm, 83.9 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: 2026-08-16